While You Chose Her, I Claimed Everything

Tara Elise Valmont had always believed her marriage wasn’t perfect—but it was enough to hold on to. Enough to endure. Until a single document shattered everything.

Her name had never been registered as his wife.

Behind the five years she had lived through—loved through—was a lie far crueler than she could have imagined. Adrian Lucien Ashbourne, the man she called her husband, had already been legally married to another woman.

Kara Evangeline Valmont. Her own twin sister. And the child she had cared for with all her heart… had never been hers to begin with.

Betrayed by the man she loved and the blood she trusted, Tara finally understood the truth she had been blind to for so long—she had never truly owned anything in her life.

Not her marriage.

Not her place.

Not even the love she thought she had been given.

But this time… She wouldn’t walk away empty-handed. With pain that sharpened rather than broke her, Tara began to plan. Slowly. Quietly. Lethally.

Because this time, she wouldn’t just survive. She would take everything back.

[1]

“Mm… slow down, Adrian.”

The voice stopped Tara in her tracks just as she reached the door to her husband’s study. It was familiar—far too familiar. For a moment, she wondered if she had misheard.

“…There’s no way I can go slow when it’s you.”

Tara’s heart seemed to stop. That voice… Adrian?

She didn’t notice when her breathing turned shallow, uneven. Her hand moved instinctively, searching for something to steady herself. Her fingertips brushed the edge of a small table near the door, gripping it tightly—as if letting go would make her collapse right there.

She stepped closer, almost soundlessly, though every inch felt unbearably heavy. Her legs trembled, her head buzzed—but the voices beyond the door were too clear to ignore.

A soft gasp slipped through the air, followed by a quiet laugh that made Tara’s blood run cold.

“Adrian…” the woman murmured, her tone soft, indulgent—intimately familiar. “You really can’t control yourself, can you?”

Tara squeezed her eyes shut.

No. No, that wasn’t possible.

“You think I’d ever take it easy when I’m with you, my Kara?” Adrian chuckled.

Kara.

The name struck her like a blow. Tara’s grip on the table tightened, her knuckles paling as her nails dug into the wood. She felt nothing. No pain.

Her whole body had gone numb.

“What if Tara finds out?” Kara let out a soft, amused laugh, as though savoring something far beyond the conversation itself. “What do you think her face would look like?”

Adrian laughed with her—carefree, unbothered. “She won’t find out. She trusts me too much… believes I love her,” he said lightly. “That just makes everything easier.”

The air left Tara’s lungs.

“Sometimes I wonder,” Kara continued, her voice laced with quiet mockery, “how she’s managed not to notice anything. Even after everything we’ve done.” A soft moan slipped from her lips again.

“Because she never really looks,” Adrian replied. “She just accepts whatever we show her… and believes it, sweetheart.”

Tara bit down on her lip, forcing back even the faintest sound. She wanted to leave. To run—far, far away from this place. But her feet wouldn’t move.

As if something inside her was holding her there…

Demanding that she stay—and listen to every word.

“Speaking of which…” Kara’s voice slipped through between soft, breathy moans. “It’s almost funny, isn’t it? Every year she celebrates her ‘marriage’… when the marriage isn’t even registered under her name.”

Tara’s heart seemed to stop.

“I’ve been wondering,” Kara continued, her tone light, almost playful. “If she ever checks the civil records one day, do you think she’ll be shocked? Or completely shattered when she sees that the name listed there is mine?”

Tara froze. Her fingers dug harder into the edge of the table, her vision beginning to blur.

“She won’t go that far,” Adrian replied calmly. “And even if she does… it won’t matter anymore.”

“Besides,” he added, his voice turning cold again, “we just need to wait until the Neo Group project is finished.”

Neo Group.

The massive project Adrian was leading—and the one Tara had been managing from the very beginning.

“Most of the clients only trust Tara,” he went on. “Her reputation is what’s keeping everything running. We still need her.”

“And after that?” Kara asked softly.

“I’ll get rid of her.”

The words fell so easily. No hesitation. No emotion.

As if Tara were nothing.

As if the five years she had given him meant absolutely nothing at all.

The world tilted around her. Her grip weakened, her body swaying—but she forced herself to stay upright.

Don’t fall. Not now. You must stay strong.

“Good,” Kara said, a faint smile in her voice. “I’m already tired of pretending.” She let out a soft, satisfied breath. “Then for our fifth wedding anniversary, let’s make it grand. Something that fits our real status. What do you think, darling?”

“Of course,” Adrian replied easily. “Do whatever you want.”

Outside the door, something inside Tara finally shattered—completely, irreparably.

The anniversary that was just around the corner…

the marriage she had held onto so tightly…

None of it had ever been hers.

Her breath trembled. Slowly, her fingers slipped from the table. She forced herself to stand straight, even as everything inside her felt hollow.

The civil registry office.

The thought surfaced suddenly, sharply.

“I need to go there…” she whispered under her breath. “I need proof. I need to see all of this for myself.”

Not long after, Tara stood inside the very office where her marriage had supposedly been registered.

“Miss Valmont, your name doesn’t appear in our marriage records.”

“That’s impossible,” Tara said, a strained laugh escaping her lips, disbelief clinging to every word. “Please… please check again.”

The officer let out a quiet sigh but complied, running the check again.

“This is the third time, Miss Valmont,” she said gently. “But your name—Tara Elise Valmont—is not listed on any marriage certificate.”

“That’s impossible!” Tara’s voice broke, sharp with disbelief. “I’ve been married to Adrian Ashbourne for five years.”

The words she had overheard outside Adrian’s study came rushing back, echoing mercilessly in her mind.

So all this time…

“As I mentioned, I’ve checked repeatedly,” the administrative staff continued patiently. “However, there is a record under your family name. Miss Kara Evangeline Valmont. She is registered as married to Adrian Lucien Ashbourne on April 22, 2022.”

The world seemed to collapse beneath Tara’s feet.

If not for the quick support of one of the staff members, she would have crumpled to the floor right then and there.

“This… this isn’t real, is it?” she whispered, her voice trembling as tears spilled down her cheeks. “This has to be a mistake… it has to be.”

“Would you like a copy?” the officer asked, clearly confused by Tara’s insistence since the moment she arrived—her desperate need to confirm whether her name existed in the records at all.

“…Can I have it?”

Moments later, a copy of the marriage certificate was placed in her hands.

And at that exact moment, her phone rang.

“Tara, it’s me. Victor.”

The voice on the other end made her pause.

“Mr… Victor?”

“Goodness, Tara,” he chuckled lightly. “Have you already forgotten your father-in-law?”

Of course she hadn’t. There was no way she could forget Victor Ashbourne. But why was he calling her?

“Yes, Mr. Vic—”

“Daddy, Tara,” Victor corrected, his tone firm but not unkind. “Why are you being so formal with me? You’re my daughter-in-law.”

Tara swallowed, steadying herself, forcing her voice to calm down. “Yes… Daddy. What is it?”

“Pick me up at the airport in two hours. I’m on my way to Holland City,” he said. Then, after a brief pause, his tone lowered slightly. “And don’t tell Adrian I’m coming. You can do that, can’t you?”

[2]

The road stretched ahead, quiet and almost eerily calm. Tara drove at a steady pace, the traffic lights shifting from red to green as cars moved along in an orderly rhythm. The afternoon sky was clear—bright, almost indifferent.

Nothing likes her.

Inside the car, it felt as though a storm had settled deep within her chest. Her hands held the steering wheel, but her mind lagged far behind, trapped somewhere she couldn’t escape.

The voices came back. Relentless.

“Her name was never registered as the wife.”

“The one listed… is mine.”

“I’ll get rid of her.”

Her breath hitched. She tried to focus on the road, on the movement of cars, on the simple act of driving—but everything that had just happened kept crashing into her thoughts, over and over again.

Five years.

Five years of her life… spent living inside something that had never even existed.

Her grip on the wheel tightened. Her chest constricted painfully, something rising inside her—a suffocating mix of anger, devastation, and emptiness.

The traffic light ahead turned yellow. Tara didn’t notice. Her mind drifted back to the paper she had held not long ago—the document that proved everything. The name. The date.

All of it was real.

Not a nightmare.

A sharp honk blared from the side, snapping her back to reality. Her eyes widened just as a car sped in from the right—too close. Far too close. Everything happened in an instant. Her reflexes came too late.

The crash rang out—loud, violently followed by a jolt that threw her body forward. The world spun. Her head slammed against something hard, and for a fleeting moment…

There was silence. Then chaos. Voices overlapped, loud and disordered. People shouting. A car door being forced open. Someone calling out—urgent, panicked.

“Help! She’s still conscious!”

Tara blinked slowly, her vision blurred. Her body felt heavy, distant, as if it no longer belonged to her. Strangely, there was no sharp pain, just a dull, overwhelming weight pressing down on her.

“Miss, can you hear me?”

She wanted to answer, but the words caught in her throat, refusing to come out.

Only one thought surfaced, clear and insistent—I have to get to the airport.

Time seemed to move too fast after that.

Tara couldn’t quite remember how she ended up at the nearest hospital, how the examinations were done, or how she found herself sitting there now—hands still trembling slightly, her world still struggling to piece itself back together.

There was only one sentence she could remember.

“Congratulations. You’re pregnant—about three weeks along. Fortunately, the accident didn’t harm the baby. Please… be more careful when you drive.”

The world seemed to stop all over again.

“I’m… pregnant?” Her voice was barely a whisper.

The doctor nodded, continuing to explain—something about early-stage conditions, the age of the pregnancy, and precautions she needed to take.

“That’s impossible.” Tara laughed, though it was the kind of laugh meant more for something absurd than amusing. “I’m... pregnant?” she repeated, this time resting a hand over her still-flat stomach.

“Why don’t you believe it?” Dr. Evans frowned in confusion. “Then whose test results would these be, if not yours, Miss Tara?”

Tara looked down at the report in her hands once again. She had not forgotten the diagnosis from the Ashbourne family doctor, the physician Adrian trusted to oversee his family’s health, including hers. He had told her that having children would be difficult for her.

There had been so many explanations, so many instructions, so many medications Tara had been told to take. Adrian had often comforted her, saying it didn’t matter if they couldn’t have children. They could always adopt. And because of Adrian’s support, Tara had agreed to the adoption process.

But now she was holding a different report entirely.

Three weeks pregnant.

Her mind searched through her memories. Then one night surfaced with painful clarity. The night Adrian had come home drunk. For the first time in so long, he had touched her again. It had been cold, detached, almost emotionless, yet to Tara, that night had remained unforgettable.

At the time, she had even allowed herself to hope that maybe things would finally get better. Intimacy often lifted a couple’s mood, brought them closer, or so she had believed.

“So I...” Tears slipped down her cheeks one after another before she could stop them. “I’m really pregnant?”

“Of course.” Dr. Evans looked increasingly puzzled by the woman sitting before him. “You’re healthy, and there are no issues with the pregnancy. So... why are you doubting that you’re pregnant?”

Once again, Tara laughed, but this time the sound was laced with bitterness. “Then all this time... could it be that doctor was lying?”

“Yes?”

“Ah, no.” Tara quickly tried to compose herself. What was she supposed to feel right now? Happiness? Sadness? Or complete devastation?

This child…

The child of a man she had just heard—so clearly—say he intended to get rid of her. A soft, hollow laugh escaped her lips, surprising even herself. “How ironic…” she murmured under her breath.

At the exact moment her life was falling apart…

something was beginning to grow inside her. Her phone vibrated again. Victor’s name lit up the screen.

Victor.

Tara stared at it for a few seconds before finally answering.

“Tara, where are you now?” His voice was calm as ever. Not demanding, not urgent—but steady enough to pull her back to reality.

She closed her eyes briefly, taking a slow breath. She couldn’t let him hear the chaos inside her.

“I’m on my way, Daddy,” she said, forcing her voice to remain steady.

“All right. I’ll be landing in an hour.”

The call ended.

Tara looked at her reflection in the mirror inside the examination room. For a moment, she barely recognized the woman staring back at her.

“Thank you for the explanation, Doctor,” she said quietly, pushing herself to stand.

“You should be careful and avoid any strenuous activity,” the doctor reminded her gently.

Tara simply gave a small nod. Then she left the hospital, her emotions tangled into something she couldn’t quite untangle. There was no time to think about what came next.

Not yet.

She couldn’t afford to fall apart before the right moment.

She just… couldn’t.

***

The airport was crowded with people arriving, people leaving, voices blending into a constant hum of movement and life. It felt so alive, so full of motion… a sharp contrast to the heaviness sitting inside Tara.

She stood not far from the arrival gate, doing her best to appear normal despite the dull ache still lingering in her body. The injuries on her hand and temple were subtle—but not invisible.

And she knew Victor would notice. Of course he would. Then she saw him.

Victor Alistair Ashbourne.

He walked with steady, unhurried steps, his presence commanding without effort. There was a quiet authority about him, something that made people instinctively take notice. His gaze found Tara almost immediately, and for the first time, something in his expression shifted.

A slight frown formed, his eyes drawn straight to the bandage on her temple. “Tara, what happened to you?”

Tara offered a faint smile. “It’s nothing, Daddy. Just… a minor injury.”

Victor’s brows furrowed deeper. “That doesn’t look minor.”

“I’m fine. Really,” Tara insisted, keeping her tone light. “I just had a small fall yesterday. It’s nothing—you don’t need to worry.”

Victor didn’t respond right away. His gaze lingered on her a moment longer, as if weighing whether to believe her. But in the end, he gave a small nod. “If you say so.”

They walked side by side toward the car.

“Why don’t you want Adrian to know you’re here?” Tara asked softly once they were seated inside.

Victor kept his eyes forward. “I want to surprise him,” he replied calmly. “And I’d like to see the progress of the Neo Group project for myself.”

He glanced at her briefly. “And the person best suited to explain it… is you. Your reports are far more precise—and far more satisfying.”

Tara Stilled. She hadn’t expected that. At a time when everyone seemed to be using her, there was still someone who acknowledged her worth. She nodded quietly. “I’ll prepare a complete report.”

“I’ll need the financial reports for the project Adrian is handling as well. I can get them from you, can’t I?”

Tara turned to him, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. “Wouldn’t it be easier for you to request them directly from Mr. Hans?”

Hans was the finance manager under Adrian’s supervision. Anything Adrian needed to keep his projects running smoothly always came through Hans’s approval.

“You’re right,” Victor replied with a faint smile. “But like I said, I don’t want Adrian to know I’m back.”

It was odd—no matter how she looked at it—but Tara chose not to question him further. She simply nodded.

Out in the airport lobby, a luxury car was already waiting to take Victor wherever he wished to go. The driver stepped forward, opening the door with quiet efficiency, and soon the car pulled away from the terminal.

For a while, silence settled between them, stretching just long enough to feel deliberate rather than uncomfortable. Tara kept her gaze forward, her thoughts quietly turning, while Victor seemed entirely at ease, as if he had already anticipated every question she chose not to ask.

Then Victor broke the silence, his tone noticeably lighter.

“By the way,” he said, “I hear your wedding anniversary celebration is coming up soon.”

Tara’s heartbeat slowly, heavily. How ironic that a part of her still expected that celebration to be the same as in previous years.

“Yes,” she answered briefly.

“What would you like as a gift?” Victor asked. “As your father-in-law, I don’t think I’ve ever truly asked you that.”

Tara turned, studying for a moment before her gaze drifted back to the road ahead.

“Just say it,” Victor continued calmly. “As part of the Ashbourne family, I believe you deserve something from me.”

“Anything?” Tara asked, as if testing the weight of his words.

“Yes.” Victor’s tone was firm. “Anything.”

She didn’t answer right away.

Her eyes remained fixed ahead, but her mind began to unravel everything—every moment, every truth that had surfaced. All this time, she had stood outside. Carrying out what was asked of her. Becoming the face people trusted. The hands that fixed everything.

But never—not once—the one in control. And what had it brought her?

Nothing.

She had lost everything before she even realized it. A marriage that was never hers. A life built on carefully constructed lies. If she stayed where she was, then no matter what she did… it would all amount to nothing.

It would never matter.

Tara drew in a slow breath. Her fingers tightened against each other—not out of fragility, but because something inside her was beginning to take shape.

Clarity.

Understanding—not just of what had been done to her, but of what she needed to do next.

She didn’t need recognition. She didn’t need sympathy. She needed power. Something absolute. Something no one could take from her.

Something that would make it impossible for anyone to ever cast her aside again.

Slowly, Tara turned to him. There was no hesitation in her eyes now—no emptiness, no doubt. Only a quiet, steady resolve.

“Make me the CEO of Ashbourne,” she said at last, her voice low but unwavering. Then, after a brief pause—“Can you give me that… as my gift?”

[3]

Victor sat calmly in the back seat, as though the conversation that had just taken place between him and Tara had been nothing significant. But for Tara, it had taken immense courage, along with the sacrifice of her pride, to say those words aloud.

For a long moment, she watched him through the rearview mirror, studying the way he remained so composed. His eyes were closed, as if he were simply enjoying the drive toward the luxury apartment in the city center.

In the end, Tara was the one who broke the silence between them.

“Are you sure I should keep your return a secret?”

She asked the question again, and not without reason. Although Victor and Adrian seemed distant in their personal relationship, they were deeply tied when it came to business. There were many matters Adrian had to discuss with Victor before implementing any new policy at Ashbourne Corp. More than once, that arrangement had frustrated Adrian, who often felt Victor was standing in the way of several of his decisions.

“What do you think?” Victor asked with a faint smile.

There was nothing Tara could do except nod in agreement.

“If that is your order, then I’ll do it,” she said quietly. “And I’ll prepare everything you requested right away.”

“Good.”

That was all Victor said.

When they arrived at the lobby, a man in a black suit was already waiting to receive them. But before Victor fully stepped out of the car, he spoke once more.

“Drive carefully, Tara. Don’t let yourself become careless if you want to stand at the very top.”

His words left her momentarily still. Even after Victor and his assistant disappeared into the apartment lobby, Tara remained there, quietly replaying their conversation in her mind.

Then her phone rang, breaking through her thoughts.

My Love.

The name lit up on the screen. If she hadn’t learned everything she had today, Tara might have answered with warmth and eagerness, asking what Adrian needed and doing her best to make him happy.

“Yes?” Tara replied flatly.

“Where are you?” Adrian asked, his tone edged with impatience. “Liora needs you. Hurry back.”

Tara shut her eyes tightly.

Liora.

Right. The adopted child Adrian had suggested to comfort Tara after being told about her fertility issues. A sudden thread of doubt slipped into her mind. Could it be...?

“Yes. I’ll be home in thirty minutes,” Tara said, then ended the call immediately. Her grip tightened around the phone. She forced the dark thought aside and instructed the driver to take her back home.

Not long after, she arrived.

“What happened to you?” Adrian asked, stopping short the moment he saw the bandage wrapped around her temple. Genuine surprise crossed his face. “Why didn’t you tell me right away?”

Tara gave him a faint smile. “I was afraid of disturbing you. Weren’t you... busy?”

Her eyes fixed on Adrian sharply. The look made him frown, confused and faintly unsettled. Tara’s demeanor felt different tonight. What had happened to her?

“Of course not. You could have ca—”

“Where’s Liora?” Tara cut in, stepping past him into the Ashbourne residence, the house she had considered home for the past five years. She had truly believed she belonged here, as though this place were hers too.

“You’re not going to tell me what happened to you?” Adrian asked, stopping her in her tracks.

“I slipped.”

In truth, Tara was somewhat surprised by his reaction. Usually, Adrian only asked about her well-being out of courtesy. But this time, the concern in his eyes was unmistakable.

“You don’t need to worry,” Tara said, continuing forward.

There was a time when walking through those doors always filled her with quiet pride. Now, her stomach churned. Something bitter rose in her throat, making her want to vomit everything up, including the sudden concern Adrian was showing her.

He watched her for a few seconds longer than usual. His brows drew together slightly, as if trying to read something he couldn’t quite understand.

“Are you sure?” he asked again. “You look... pale.”

Tara kept smiling. “Maybe I do. It’s only natural. I almost went through something serious.”

“Something serious?” Adrian frowned deeply. “Be more careful next time,” he said firmly. “You still have to meet with representatives from Ceso Group tomorrow. Don’t embarrass me.”

Tara’s jaw tightened.

Of course.

Her role in Adrian’s life was simple. She was the face of Ashbourne. When delicate negotiations needed charm and trust, Tara handled them. After that, Adrian only had to enjoy the smooth road she had already cleared for him.

“Don’t worry,” Tara said, holding his gaze. “I won’t disappoint you.”

Adrian smiled broadly. “That’s my wife.”

He moved to slip an arm around her, but Tara instinctively stepped away. The motion made Adrian frown.

“Why?”

“Ah, nothing.” Tara forced herself to appear normal, though inside she felt disgusted and furious beyond words. How could Adrian play his role so perfectly? That very morning he had been making love to her twin sister in the study of this house, and now he stood here acting sweet and attentive in front of Tara, as if nothing had happened.

The worst part was that Tara had only begun uncovering his lies piece by piece. And she intended to dig until she found every last root of them.

“If something’s bothering you, you can tell me,” Adrian said. “Or... are you angry with me?”

The question slipped out instinctively, as though it were the only explanation he could think of for the subtle change he sensed in her.

Tara looked at him in mild surprise, then slowly shook her head. “Angry?” she repeated softly. “Why would I be angry?”

Since Adrian was still watching her with visible confusion, Tara spoke again to erase whatever doubts remained in his mind. “It’s nothing,” she said lightly. “I’m just tired. That’s all.”

At last, Adrian nodded, though a trace of puzzlement still lingered on his face. He followed Tara as she walked farther into the house. “Oh, I forgot to tell you, your sister stopped by. She said she missed Liora.”

Of course Kara was here.

“Oh really? Since when?” Tara asked, forcing a cheerful tone. Normally, she would have been happy about Kara’s visit. She had always believed Kara was the only true sister she had.

Never once had Tara imagined that the person closest to her would be the one to betray her so completely.

“About an hour ago,” Adrian replied.

Liar, Tara cursed inwardly.

They walked together toward the living room, and then she heard it. The bright laughter of a child mixed with the soft, melodic voice of a woman.

Liora Ashbourne, the five-year-old girl they had adopted not long after their marriage, was sitting on the family room carpet surrounded by toys. Her little face was glowing, her small body half leaning against the figure seated beside her.

Kara Evangeline.

The woman laughed softly, her fingers slipping through Liora’s hair with effortless familiarity, as though that place beside the child had belonged to her from the very beginning.

“Ah, you’re home?” Kara turned, her smile widening the moment she saw them. “I just stopped by for a little while. I missed Liora.”

Then Kara’s eyes widened in shock when she noticed Tara. “What happened to you, my sweet little sister?”

She hurried closer, reaching out to touch the wound on Tara’s temple, but Tara slapped her hand away sharply.

“I’m sorry,” Tara said at once. “I...”

It wasn’t only Tara who was startled. Kara was too. Tara had never rejected her concern before.

“I’m fine, Kara. I just slipped,” Tara said, trying to sound calm.

“Oh my God,” Kara said sympathetically. “Be more careful next time, Tara.”

The words sounded normal enough, but now, to Tara, that concern felt utterly disgusting.

“Yes. Thank you for your concern.”

Meanwhile, Liora immediately turned toward Adrian, then scrambled to her feet and ran to him. “Daddy!” she cried happily.

Adrian bent down and lifted her with ease. A faint smile appeared on his face as he kissed his daughter’s cheeks several times. “Was Daddy’s girl good today?” he asked.

“Yes!” Liora answered brightly, then glanced toward Kara as though looking for confirmation.

Kara smiled proudly. “She was very sweet today. Don’t worry, Adrian.”

Tara stood there in silence, quietly watching their interaction. This time she watched more closely than ever, and it only reinforced the impossible thought forming in her mind.

But after seeing all this closeness, why did it seem impossible at all? Everything looked painfully clear now. She had been so stupid. Kara’s words that morning were right. How had she been fooled so easily? Even something this obvious had escaped her notice.

“Liora,” Kara called gently, patting the child lightly on the shoulder. “Come say hello to your mother.”

Your mother.

Tara almost wanted to burst into laughter until it turned into tears.

Liora turned toward Tara. The warmth in her little eyes was nothing like the look she had just given Kara. She frowned, then quickly shook her head. “I don’t want to,” she said.

The room fell into an awkward silence. Normally, at a moment like this, Tara would walk over, kneel down, coax her patiently, and stroke the top of Liora’s head with gentle affection. But this time, she only stood there, perfectly still.

“Why?” Kara asked, her tone still soft.

“Because Mommy is mean,” Liora answered without hesitation. “She never lets me eat a lot of candy. Too many rules.”

Usually, Tara would have corrected her, explained what was best for Liora, or tried to smooth things over. But not today. Not after everything she had heard. And not after learning who was truly standing in front of her.

Tara was one hundred percent certain now. Liora was Kara and Adrian’s child. At this moment, she found herself studying the little girl’s features more carefully than ever. The resemblance to her real parents was undeniable. Liora was the perfect blend of Adrian and Kara.

Tara drew in a slow breath, then offered a faint smile. “It’s alright,” she said calmly.

Everyone turned to look at her in surprise.

Tara looked at Liora for a moment, not with anger and not with disappointment. Her gaze was flat, empty of expression. Then she said softly, “Do whatever you want, Liora.”

She stepped closer and gently stroked the top of the girl’s head. “I’ll never forbid you again.”

She paused for a moment before turning to head toward her room. Her eyes shifted briefly to Kara. For the first time, her words carried deliberate weight.

“After all... you have your mother, don’t you?”

[4]

Dinner that evening unfolded exactly as Tara had expected Kara was there too.

Normally, Tara would have welcomed her sister’s presence with genuine warmth. Whenever their parents joined them, the house would feel livelier filled with conversation and laughter. Though often, those conversations revolved around one person.

Kara this. Kara that. Kara, the pride of the family.

And Tara?

Just an afterthought.

But back then, it had never hurt. She had accepted it all with sincerity, loved them without question, without condition.

Until today.

The day everything was revealed—in the cruelest way possible.

“I made your favorite beef soup, Adrian. Would you like to try it first?” Kara’s voice was soft, attentive.

She stood by the stove, a spoon in her hand, waiting—her smile far too warm for someone who was supposed to be nothing more than a sister-in-law.

Adrian, who had been watching her all along, smiled without hesitation. “Of course.”

He walked over, leaning in slightly as he accepted the spoonful she offered. No awkwardness. No distance.

“This is really good, Kara. You have a talent for this,” he praised sincerely. Then his gaze shifted toward Tara. “You should learn a thing or two from your sister.”

Tara didn’t respond immediately.

She simply sat at the dining table, leaning back with quiet composure, observing everything. A cup of green tea rested in her hand, the warmth grounding her as she took it all in—the lingering glances, the smiles that carried meaning, the closeness that went far beyond what it should have been.

Damn it.

Why was it all so obvious now?

A moment later, hurried footsteps echoed from the hallway.

“Daddy!”

Liora appeared, her face bright, her hair slightly tousled as she ran toward them. Her eyes lit up at the sight of the table—only to shift immediately toward Kara.

“Mommy Kara, what did you make for Daddy tonight?” she asked eagerly.

Tara should have noticed it sooner—how easily Liora called Kara “Mommy,” and how Kara never once corrected her.

Kara smiled gently. “Right here, sweetheart. Your daddy’s favorite soup, of course.”

Liora climbed into her seat quickly, but before reaching for anything, she glanced at Tara.

“What did Mommy Tara make?”

The question was simple—yet it shifted the atmosphere in the room in an instant.

Tara looked at her briefly. “Mommy didn’t cook today,” she replied calmly.

Liora paused. “Why not?”

“I didn’t have time.”

Liora frowned, then nudged the bowl in front of her slightly, the one Kara had prepared, specially served for her as well.

“Just eat the soup, Liora,” Tara said quietly.

“I don’t want this. I want Mommy Tara’s omelet,” Liora said sharply. “Now!”

Normally, Tara would have smiled, gently coaxing her, explaining things with patience and warmth.

But not this time. She simply picked up her own spoon. “Then don’t eat it.”

Both Kara and Adrian turned to look at her. The tone was too flat—too indifferent. There was no attempt to soothe, no effort to soften Liora’s mood.

Kara let out a small laugh, trying to ease the tension. “Liora, don’t be like that. Mommy Kara worked hard to make this. Just try it—it’s good.”

“But I want Mommy Tara’s omelet,” Liora whined.

“Liora,” Adrian called, his voice firm.

But before he could continue, Tara cut her tone sharper this time. “Eat what’s in front of you, Liora. Besides, it’s made by Mommy Kara—the one you love, right?”

Liora huffed in frustration, then began stirring her soup reluctantly.

Silence followed for a few moments, and dinner resumed—at least on the surface.

Adrian cleared his throat before speaking again. “There’s something I want to discuss.”

Tara said nothing. Her spoon moved slowly through her bowl, her gaze lowered, though from the corner of her eye she watched the two people across from her—Kara and her husband.

“The Neo Group project is becoming more demanding. It needs full attention,” Adrian continued. His eyes shifted to Kara. “I need Kara to work closely with me—directly. It’ll make coordination and meetings with key clients much easier. So for the time being… Kara will be staying here.”

Tara’s spoon paused for a brief second—then continued as if nothing had happened. No reaction. No objection.

And somehow, that response unsettled Kara. “Adrian… I don’t think that’s necessary—”

“I want Mommy Kara to stay here!” Liora suddenly cut in.

Everyone turned to her.

“I want Mommy Kara here! I don’t want her to leave!”

“Liora, sweetheart—” Kara tried to calm her, but Liora was already standing on her chair.

“I don’t want Mommy Kara to go, Daddy!” she shouted, louder this time. Her hand swept across the bowl in front of her—

Soup spilled, warm broth splashing across the table, the spoon clattering loudly to the floor.

“Liora!” Adrian snapped.

But the crying and shouting didn’t stop.

And at that moment, Tara stood up.

“Liora.”

Her voice wasn’t loud—but it was enough to stop everything. Liora froze. Her breathing was still uneven; her cheeks were wet with tears.

“Sit,” Tara said firmly.

There was no sharpness in her tone, no raised voice—yet something had changed. Slowly, Liora lowered herself back into her seat. Tara stepped closer, calm and measured, each step deliberates. She stopped right in front of the child, looking down at her with an unreadable expression.

“Who taught you to behave like this?”

No one spoke.

“You throw food, shout at the table, and show no respect to the person who cooked for you.”

Liora looked up at her, fear flickering in her eyes.

“You can’t answer?”

“N-no one, Mommy Tara…”

Tara gave a small nod. “Hold out your hand.”

Liora didn’t dare refuse. She placed her small hand on the edge of the table. Then, in one swift motion, Tara struck her palm with the chopsticks lying on the table.

Once.

Twice.

A few times—not hard, but enough to make the girl flinch. Liora cried out instantly, startled and stung by the pain. But Tara didn’t stop right away.

“I never taught you that,” Tara continued, her voice still low. “So don’t do it again.”

Liora’s sobs grew louder. What Tara was doing left both Kara and Adrian stunned—but they couldn’t let it continue. Kara quickly stood and rushed over, pulling Liora into her arms.

“That’s enough, that’s enough,” she said anxiously. “Don’t go on, Tara. I’m sure she’s learned her lesson.”

“Mommy Kara!” Liora wailed, clinging to her. “It hurts! My hand hurts! Mommy Tara is mean!”

“It’s okay, sweetheart. It’s okay…”

Kara looked at Tara, shock plain on her face. Without another word, she lifted Liora into her arms and carried her away. The sound of the child’s crying lingered as they disappeared upstairs.

The room fell silent once more.

Adrian was still staring at Tara, his expression unreadable. “You didn’t have to go that far, Tara,” he said at last.

Tara didn’t respond immediately. She stood there for a few seconds, then her shoulders slowly slumped.

Tears slipped down her cheeks. “I’m sorry,” she murmured. “I couldn’t raise her properly.” Her voice trembled. “I was too harsh. I should’ve been more patient…”

She lowered her head. “I… failed as a mother.”

Her hands trembled as she wiped away her tears.

“Tara,” Adrian called. But she didn’t respond. Instead, she spoke again, her voice fragile, breaking at the edges.

“I failed as her mother. I really did. If Liora had been with her real mother… I’m sure she wouldn’t have turned out like this.”

“No—no, why would you think that?” Adrian stepped closer, trying to comfort her.

But the moment he did, Tara recoiled.

“Don’t come any closer, Adrian.”

Her voice was firmer than before. And the look in her eyes made it clear she didn’t want him anywhere near her.

It was strange. Because usually, Tara was the one who tried to stay close to him—while Adrian was the one who kept his distance.

But tonight… everything felt different.

“I’m going to my room.”

She turned and walked away without another glance. As she climbed the stairs, the tears on her face disappeared almost as quickly as they had fallen.

The guilt. Regret. The image of a woman who had just punished a small child too harshly, gone.

In its place, a faint smile curved on her lips. It didn’t last long, but it was enough. Enough to reveal one undeniable truth—Tara was no longer standing where she used to be.

If all this time she had been playing along with their game…

Then from now on—she would be the one writing the rules.

If you can lie so easily… then I’ll meet you on the same ground.

Just wait, Adrian.

You’ll regret this.

And you too… my dear sister.

Be ready.

Because I won’t stay silent anymore.

[5]

“How is she?” Tara asked.

There was worry in her eyes—soft, aching, unmistakable. She stepped forward the moment the door to her room opened, as if she had been waiting for this exact second.

Adrian paused, caught off guard. He hadn’t expected her to still be awake. He had assumed she’d gone to bed already. Clearing his throat lightly, he steadied himself.

“She’s much better now. Kara calmed her down, and… Liora’s asleep with her.”

Tara let out a quiet breath. “Thank goodness.” Her shoulders sagged in relief. “I’ve been waiting to hear from you. I didn’t want to force myself into Liora’s room… I was afraid she’d only become more scared of me.”

She lowered her gaze, her expression heavy with guilt and sorrow. “I’m sorry, Adrian. I really… can’t seem to be a good mother to her.”

At first, Adrian had been ready to be angry. The scene at the dining table was still fresh in his mind—the way she had struck Liora’s hand, the coldness in her voice, the unfamiliar look in her eyes.

But all of it faltered the moment he saw her now. She stood before him with slumped shoulders, swollen eyes, and none of the sharpness she had shown earlier.

Something was different. And Adrian wasn’t sure whether it unsettled him… or concerned him.

“You don’t have to blame yourself like this,” he said at last, stepping closer, studying her more carefully. “She was just being spoiled. By tomorrow, she’ll forget all about it.”

Tara shook her head slowly. “No, Adrian… this is my fault.” She drew in a deep breath, as if holding back something heavier than guilt alone. “I shouldn’t have reacted like that. I didn’t even recognize myself.”

Adrian frowned slightly. “What do you mean?”

Tara fell silent for a moment, then sat down on the edge of the bed. Her fingers clasped tightly together, betraying her unease. “Actually... I was in an accident earlier.”

“What?!” Adrian straightened immediately. “Why didn’t you tell me that from the beginning?”

His attention shifted to her injuries at once, examining every bruise and scrape far more carefully than before. “You should have said something...”

“I’m alright now, darling,” Tara said with a calming smile. She let him take her hand in his. “During the accident...” Her voice softened. “I was really scared.”

Adrian stared at her intently. “What were you afraid of?”

“The car came so fast. I didn’t even have time to think.” She lowered her eyes, her voice trembling. “The only thing that crossed my mind was... what if I didn’t survive?”

Her fingers tightened slightly . “What if I really disappeared... without leaving anything behind?”

Adrian didn’t respond right away. This wasn’t the direction he had expected the conversation to take. Tara had never been the type to show fear so openly. She had always been composed, steady—easy to manage, easy to predict.

But tonight… She wasn’t.

“That’s enough,” he said finally, his tone softer now. “You’re safe. You’re fine. That’s what matters.”

Tara nodded, though the sadness still lingered in her eyes.

“I know… but it feels different now. Like I’ve just realized that everything can disappear at any moment.” Her voice wavered. “And maybe that’s why my emotions got out of control… and Liora—”

She covered her face, holding back the sob that had been building all this time.

Adrian let out a quiet breath, then reached out to gently rub her shoulder. “You’re just exhausted. Today was too much for you.”

“Mm.” Tara didn’t argue.

“Get some rest,” he continued. “You need it.”

Tara lifted her face, looking at him for a moment before speaking softly, “Can you stay with me?”

Adrian hesitated.

“Just for a little while,” she added quickly. “I just… don’t want to be alone tonight.”

It was a simple request. Normally, Adrian would have brushed it off without a second thought—but tonight, he didn’t refuse right away.

After a brief pause, he gave a reluctant nod. “Alright.”

Tara shifted slightly, making space beside her. Adrian lay down on the other side of the bed, keeping a careful distance—as he always did. The room dimmed, the lights softened into a quiet, warm glow.

Silence settled between them.

Tara lay on her back, staring at the ceiling, while Adrian kept his gaze fixed ahead. There was no touch between them. Not even the slightest brush of skin.

“Adrian,” Tara called softly, breaking the silence.

“Yes?”

“Our wedding anniversary is coming up soon, isn’t it? I’ve already prepared the celebration, just like every year.”

Adrian gave a small nod. “Yes.”

Tara smiled faintly. “Time really does move fast, doesn’t it?” She turned slightly, looking at him. “You must be very busy with the Neo Group project.”

Her tone shifted—lighter now, warmer, softer than before.

Adrian glanced at her briefly. “It’s a major project. A lot is at stake. And you’ve played a big role in it too, Tara.”

“I know,” Tara replied quietly. “And you’ve handled it exceptionally well. I’m just supporting you. Without your final decisions, this project wouldn’t go very far.”

Adrian didn’t respond, but something in his expression shifted—subtle, almost imperceptible.

“The Ashbourne name will grow even bigger after this,” Tara continued, as if speaking without any burden at all. “And of course… so will yours.”

There was a brief pause before she went on.

“You’ve always been like that, Adrian. You always know exactly what needs to be done.”

A faint smile touched her lips. “No wonder so many people trust you.”

Adrian gave a faint smile. “That’s my responsibility.”

Tara shook her head slowly. “Not everyone can do that—carry such a heavy burden.” She held his gaze for a few seconds longer, then added softly, “I’m proud of you.”

Adrian didn’t respond right away, but something in his eyes shifted—lighter now, more satisfied. He exhaled quietly, his body easing just a little. “I do all of this for our family.”

Tara’s smile deepened, layered with something harder to read. “In that case…” she paused, as if weighing her words carefully. “May I ask for something for our anniversary?”

Adrian turned toward her. “What is it?”

She didn’t answer immediately. Her gaze dropped for a moment before lifting again, meeting his with an expression that revealed nothing too clearly.

“All this time… I’ve never really asked you for anything,” she said softly. “And honestly, I’ve never received a gift that truly… meant something.”

Adrian’s brow furrowed slightly.

“Not because of its value,” Tara added quickly. “But because I want something that makes me feel like I’m truly part of your life.”

“So?” Adrian prompted. “What do you want?”

Tara drew in a quiet breath. “I want one of your properties.”

Adrian stilled for a moment. “A property?”

Tara nodded. “The apartment in the city center.”

He studied her for a few seconds, weighing the request. It wasn’t small—but it wasn’t something he couldn’t give either. A faint smile touched his lips.

“If that’s what you want, I’ll take care of it.”

Tara’s expression softened instantly. There was a flicker of happiness—genuine, or at least convincing enough for Adrian. As if what he had just offered her was something immense… something more than enough.

Even though, in truth, what he had given Kara was far greater.

“Thank you, Adrian.” She leaned in slightly, pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek. “I’m really happy.”

Adrian said nothing more.

But in his mind, one thought surfaced clearly—There’s no harm in giving her something.

After all…this might be the last time.

***

“Are you sure about this decision, Mr. Adrian?” The voice on the other end of the phone sounded hesitant.

Adrian stood in his study, one hand tucked into his pocket, the other holding his phone. He leaned back comfortably in his chair.

“Yes,” he replied shortly. “Proceed with the transfer.”

“This… isn’t a small asset.”

“I know.”

“May I ask your reason?” the lawyer pressed, curiosity still evident in his tone.

Adrian let out a faint smile. “Just a gift.”

“For Mrs. Tara?”

“Yes.”

There was a brief pause at the other end. “Very well. I’ll take care of it right away. By tomorrow morning, the apartment at Golden Palace will be transferred under Mrs. Tara Ashbourne’s name.”

The call ended.

Adrian stared at his phone for a moment before setting it down on the desk.

A gift.

The word felt light—too light. Because what he owned was far beyond just one or two luxury apartments. Letting go of one of them for Tara meant nothing to him.

And beneath it all, Adrian knew one thing for certain—once everything was over…

Tara would no longer be here.

[6]

“You... what?” Kara demanded, her voice rising before she could hide it.

Adrian could only let out a slow breath. “Come on, why are you making such a fuss over something so small?”

“Small?” Kara stared at him in disbelief. “Giving Tara a luxury apartment at Golden Palace, and you call that small?”

Adrian immediately moved to soothe the woman he loved. He rubbed her shoulder gently, apologized more than once, then said, “Think of it as a final gift, and a token of gratitude for all her help. At least I know how to repay a debt.”

“How amusing,” Kara said, folding her arms across her chest. Her eyes sharpened as she looked at Adrian, who was still trying to calm her down. “So now you’ve started being generous with her?”

“That’s not it, my love,” Adrian said, trying to coax her.

“Then what is it?” Kara still could not accept it so easily. “If you’re giving Tara an apartment, then what about me?”

In truth, Adrian had already transferred far more of his wealth to Kara. If Tara received a ring worth ten thousand dollars, Kara would receive something far more expensive, far more lavish, often many times the value of what Tara got. It wasn’t only jewelry. Bags, designer clothing, luxury cars, nothing escaped Adrian’s attention when it came to Kara.

“Mm... Thorne Palace is holding an auction a week before our wedding celebration,” Adrian offered, gently brushing a strand of Kara’s hair away from her cheek. “How about you choose something from their collection?”

“Yes, I want that!” The sadness and disappointment that had clouded Kara’s face vanished instantly.

Who didn’t know Thorne Palace? It was where elite socialites held prestigious auctions. Every item in their collection was rare, difficult to obtain, and outrageously expensive.

“In that case, arrange the timing carefully so it doesn’t raise suspicion,” Adrian said. He smiled with satisfaction as he watched Kara’s happiness return.

“Of course.” Kara leaned in and placed a sweet kiss on Adrian’s cheek. “Can we bring Liora?”

“Do whatever you want, my Kara.” Adrian kissed her forehead softly. “Besides, our daughter hasn’t gone on a vacation in a long time, has she?”

Kara laughed quietly. “You’re right. Then I’ll start arranging a trip for the three of us.”

They never knew the entire conversation was being overheard and recorded by Tara.

Though her legs trembled, though her breathing came in shallow bursts, though the nausea rising inside her grew stronger by the second, Tara endured it all. She forced herself to stay still, gathering one piece of evidence after another to bring them down.

No.

Not just bring them down.

She would make them feel what she was feeling now.

And the thing that hurt her most was Liora. Tara had loved that child with all the sincerity in her heart. From the moment Adrian brought her into the house, presenting her as someone who could comfort Tara in her condition, she had embraced the girl with joy.

But the truth was far crueler.

They had conspired from the very beginning, using Tara so Liora could be raised in this house without anyone ever growing suspicious.

“What a miserable life I have,” Tara muttered under her breath.

“Mrs. Tara? What are you doing here? Aren’t you having breakfast?”

The voice of one of the household staff startled her so badly that she flinched.

“Ah... nothing,” Tara replied, quickly composing herself. “Of course I’m having breakfast. You all worked hard to prepare it for us.”

She stepped into the dining room with her emotions in complete turmoil. Nausea, disappointment, heartbreak, and the overwhelming urge to curse the two people who had suddenly put distance between themselves the moment she approached.

“Good morning, my sweet little sister,” Kara greeted in a tone so sugary it sounded rehearsed. “How are you feeling? Are you better now?”

Tara forced a smile. “Yes. I hope so. Yesterday’s incident really frightened me,” she complained softly to Kara.

“What exactly happened to you yesterday?” Kara asked, confused. She studied Tara carefully, but Tara only answered with a small shake of her head, pretending she didn’t want her sister to worry.

Then Tara turned to her husband with a pleading look. “Would it be alright if I rest today? I’m feeling a bit...”

“Did you forget something, Tara?” Adrian cut in, his expression clearly displeased. “You’re meeting the representatives from Ceso Group today. I have other matters to attend to, so you’ll handle them.”

Tara lowered her gaze slightly. “Alright.”

“In that case, Kara and I will head out first. Hurry and...”

“Tara!” Kara suddenly cried out in alarm.

The world spun.

Tara nearly collapsed, managing to catch the back of a dining chair just in time. Her vision darkened. A violent wave of nausea hit her so hard her knees almost gave out.

“Tara!” This time Adrian had already risen from his seat.

She couldn’t answer. One hand flew to cover her mouth as her body trembled. A maid standing nearby rushed forward in panic.

“Ma’am!”

“Water! Get water now!” Adrian barked.

Tara shook her head weakly. “No... don’t...”

She pushed away the glass being offered to her, then bent forward, clutching her stomach. The nausea was overpowering, frightening in its intensity.

Tara was terrified.

The baby.

The thought of the pregnancy she was desperately trying to hide surged through her mind, making her heart pound violently.

Please don’t let anything happen, she begged silently.

“I’ll call Bone right now,” Adrian said, grabbing his phone. He stepped aside, made the call quickly, then his expression hardened. “He’s out of town. He won’t be back until tonight.”

“Oh God.” Kara moved closer and crouched beside Tara. “You’re so pale. What really happened yesterday, Tara? You don’t want to tell me? Your own twin sister?”

Tara brushed Kara’s hand away gently. “I... please take me to the hospital,” she said in short, strained breaths. “Now.”

Adrian turned sharply. “It’s just nausea. Wait until Bone’s replacement gets here.”

“No.” Tara lifted her face, her eyes glossy with tears that were not entirely an act. “I really don’t feel well, Adrian. Please take me now.”

There was something in Tara’s tone that made Adrian hesitate to argue. He looked at her face, growing paler by the second, at her lips drained of color, and at the hand that kept pressing against her lower abdomen.

“Fine,” he said through clenched teeth. “Get the car ready,” he ordered one of the servants.

“I’m coming too,” Kara said quickly.

Tara wanted to refuse, but another wave of dizziness hit harder than before. She didn’t have the strength to argue.

The hospital was crowded, yet orderly. Tara was pushed in a wheelchair by a nurse even though she was still able to walk. Adrian stayed on her right side, Kara on her left, both of them visibly tense.

Tara kept her head lowered, one hand resting protectively over her stomach. She no longer cared whether her pregnancy would be exposed. She only wanted to know that the baby was safe.

After an initial examination and several rapid tests, a female doctor in her forties entered the room carrying a tablet with patient data.

“Mrs... Tara Valmont?” she asked while glancing at the screen.

“Yes,” Tara answered softly.

The doctor nodded. “Your condition is stable. The nausea was most likely triggered by fatigue, stress, and hormonal changes.”

Adrian let out a short breath. “Thank God.”

But the doctor was not finished. She looked at the screen again, then frowned slightly.

“I’m sorry, I need to confirm some information.”

“Of course,” Adrian replied.

The doctor looked from Tara to Adrian. “Which immediate family member came with you today?”

“I’m her husband,” Adrian answered firmly.

“I’m her sister,” Kara added.

The doctor tapped the tablet screen several times, and her expression grew more puzzled.

“I’m sorry... are you certain the patient’s marital status has been officially registered?”

The room went silent.

Adrian stared at the doctor coldly. “What do you mean?”

“Our system is connected to the civil registry for administrative verification. Under the name Tara Valmont, there is no record of a spouse or any active marital status.”

Slowly, Tara lifted her face. She already knew. But hearing those words spoken in front of Adrian and Kara still felt like a second slap across the face. And more than that, she waited to see how Adrian would respond.

The doctor continued in a professional tone, unaware she had just dropped a bomb in the room.

“The patient is currently pregnant, and we need the legal spouse’s information to complete the records. So I need to confirm... is it possible the documents were never updated? Or is the patient, administratively speaking, unmarried?”