Chapter 1

"Miss Snow, the post-mortem service you purchased will take place in seven days, at the mudflats under Northern Gate Bridge. At that time, we will send someone down to 'rescue' you, retrieve your clothing as a keepsake, and then contact your family to inform them of your death. Please confirm, and we’ll begin the preparations."

"No problem." Nicole nodded and transferred a sum of money.

She recalled something Tristan Ford had once told her:

“Nicky, I want to spend my whole life with you. Unless death separates us, I’ll search the ends of the earth to find you.”

Fine, then she would die, so he could never find her.

After booking the post-mortem service, Nicole immediately headed to a hotel.

"Are you canceling the wedding anniversary banquet scheduled with Mr. Ford in seven days?"

Nicole glanced at a couple holding a wedding ceremony on the lawn and nodded. "Yes, cancel it."

"But this venue was booked by Mr. Ford three years ago. He said it was your favorite and asked us to reserve it. If you cancel, you’ll have to wait until next year to rebook."

The staff seemed puzzled. Tristan had reserved this spot for three years without ever mentioning a cancellation. Why the sudden change this year? Weren’t Tristan and Nicole known as the ideal couple?

"Please cancel it. I won’t be needing it."

"Alright, we’ll cancel it for you. About the fees—"

"No need for a refund."

As Nicole turned to leave, she overheard people nearby talking.

"My goodness, how romantic! If I ever get married, I want to hold my wedding here!"

"You think just anyone can afford a wedding here? It’s outrageously expensive! Do you know about Nicole Snow and Tristan Ford? I heard they celebrate every wedding anniversary here!"

"Of course, I know! Mr. Ford truly loves Nicole. If only I could marry a CEO like that in my next life…"

"Keep dreaming! You know, Nicole loves Mr. Ford deeply too. I even heard she donated part of her liver for him!"

Hearing this, Nicole laughed bitterly.

Over the years, Tristan’s acting had been impeccable—so perfect that the whole world believed she was the love of his life.

But she knew exactly what he had done.

A few people noticed Nicole approaching and let out muffled gasps.

"It's Nicole Snow! Next month is her wedding anniversary with Tristan Ford. She must be here early to check the venue!"

"They're so in love! A love where both sides are equally devoted is what everyone dreams of."

Hearing the envious remarks from those around her, Nicole merely curled her lips into a faint, mocking smile.

In love?

Perhaps to outsiders, they did seem like a perfect couple.

But only Nicole knew that the so-called love had crumbled beyond repair two years ago.

After ten years with Tristan, surviving the so-called "seven-year itch" and eventually tying the knot, she truly believed they were destined to grow old together.

That belief shattered the moment she saw Tristan walk into a hotel room, passionately kissing a rising starlet, Lisa Evans.

She recognized the woman—a rising celebrity whose youth, beauty, and enviable physique had captured the public's attention.

Rumor had it that she was also exceptionally skilled in bed.

The thrill between Nicole and Tristan had faded with time. He was already seeking new excitement, while she had remained in place, clinging to the past.

But this time, she wouldn't hold on to their rotting love any longer.

When Nicole returned home, the deliveryman arrived with a package.

When she opened it, she discovered a painting by a renowned international artist—a portrait depicting the two of them together.

Nicole stared at the painting of the two of them, seemingly in love, and found it utterly laughable.

She grabbed a pair of scissors, cut her section of the portrait, crumpled it into a ball, and tossed it into the trash.

She casually rewrapped the remaining part of the painting and set it aside.

When Tristan returned, his eyes immediately landed on the package.

"Nicky, is that our painting? Let me take a look."

Nicole stopped him. "Wait until our anniversary to open it."

"Alright."

Tristan buried his face in her long hair, wrapping her tightly in his arms.

"Whatever you say, darling. I missed you so much after just one day of not seeing you.”