Back in the Game

When I defeated Natalie for the tenth time and claimed the Supermodel Champion title, her childhood sweetheart, Jared, proposed to me.With his devastatingly handsome face, he kneeled on one knee, ring in hand, and asked, “Will you marry me?”I knew his reason. He wanted me to step away from the runway, retreat into family life, and leave the stage clear for Natalie.However, I still accepted his proposal. That very night, I pulled him into my bed.What followed was seven years of marriage. Though I never held another championship title, I gave birth to three children.They inherited not only my supermodel figure but also their father’s extraordinary looks. Wherever I went with the three of them, we gained millions of adoring fans.On my birthday, Jared handed me the registration form for the “Supermodel Showdown”.The competition, held only once every ten years, was the dream of countless models. It was organized by Aeterna, one of the most prestigious luxury fashion houses

That evening, I went as usual to the beauty institute. My modeling coach was already waiting for me.After a moment’s hesitation, she finally asked, “Do you really plan to return to modeling?”I smiled. “Not just me, but my three children as well.”As soon as the words left my mouth, three little heads peeked out from behind me. I added with a laugh, “Please arrange training for them as well.”After a crash course, my children walked the runway with impressive poise. The coach could not stop marveling, exclaiming how they were born to be supermodels just like me.However, before the joy could settle, a strong hand yanked me off the runway. It was Jared, with a flustered Natalie right behind him.His face was cold, his eyes burning with fury.“You dare to train as a model again? And you brought the children?”I brushed the dust off my clothes and gave a mocking smile as I looked at the couple before me.“You have your little seaside hobbies. Why shouldn’t the children have

The first photo appeared on the screen. It was my gown, splattered with blood.I spoke calmly.“The first year I competed, Natalie ruined my dress. A friend stayed up with me all night to rush out a replacement.“The second year, she drove nails into my heels. When I stepped off the stage after winning, both my feet were full of puncture wounds.“Every single year, Natalie had a new surprise waiting for me. Sometimes it was flowers that triggered my allergies. Sometimes, a staged car accident on my way to the venue…“Natalie’s rise to the top was no miracle. It was built on destroying every opponent with underhanded tricks.“I suspected she’d pull something again this year, which is why I warned the other models to be on guard. Otherwise, there would’ve been another disaster.”I turned my gaze to Jared, who was in shock, and spoke deliberately. “There’s a lot more. Do you want to hear it?”His lips moved, but no sound came out.Instead, my children rushed to me, tears stream

Jared suddenly shot to his feet, gripping my arm tightly, his voice frantic.“Clarissa, I’m really sorry. I’ve realized now that I never loved Natalie. The only person I’ve ever loved is you. Don’t say things you don’t mean…”Before I could answer, a sharp female voice cut through the hall. “Jared, have you lost your mind? Can’t you see Clarissa never loved you? You were nothing but her tool to have kids!“How could you possibly love that washed-up hag? You’re just bitter she dumped you! You told me you loved me, remember? Well, now that you’re divorced, I can give you the children you want—”Natalie’s once-proud face looked worn and desperate. She didn’t get to finish her sentence. Jared’s hand shot out, clamping around her throat. Natalie’s face reddened as she struggled for breath. Just before she collapsed, he released her.He looked at her coldly as he said, “I want nothing to do with someone as venomous as you. Not before, not now, not ever. Stay out of South City. Don’t