The Ex-Wife’s Mega Comeback

Betrayed by the man she once called husband, Cassia Munroe learned the hard way that love doesn’t always come with loyalty. She was never his first choice, but their child was everything. And when she asked for a divorce, she was forced to make the most painful sacrifice of all… leaving her five-year-old daughter behind. That loss became her fire. Years later, the world knows her name — not as the woman Frederick Jones discarded, but as a self-made powerhouse. A world-class chef. A renowned fitness mogul. A secret cybersecurity genius. A billionaire investor who could crush empires with a single trade. But the man who broke her has no idea that the empire she built was born from the ashes he left her in. Now Frederick wants what he once threw away. Yet Cassis’s heart is no longer his to claim. Because a mysterious man just shook the world with a single tweet: “My wife is the most beautiful woman alive. And the photo attached? Cassia Munroe. The woman everyone thought was broken has just become the one thing every billionaire in the world wants. Chapter 1 – The Whistleblower “Mom, if Dad and Aunt Sienna get married, can I live with them?” The question pierced Cassie’s heart like a blade. *** “Good night, Mommy. I love you,” six-year-old Rose whispered, her small arms looping around Cassie’s neck. The little girl’s curls brushed against her mother’s cheek as Cassie tucked the blanket gently around her. Cassie smiled, warmth flooding her chest. “I love you more, honey. I always have, and I always will.” Rose smiled sleepily, but then her expression turned thoughtful. “Mommy… does Daddy love you too?” Cassie froze for a second. That question was a dagger she wasn’t prepared for. She forced a gentle smile and brushed her daughter’s hair from her face. “Of course he does, sweetheart. He just… works a lot. He’s busy.” Rose opened her mouth as if to say something, then hesitated. “But—” “But what?” Cassie asked softly. “Daddy said I shouldn’t tell,” Rose murmured, turning to her side. Within seconds, her breathing evened out into the quiet rhythm of sleep. Cassie lingered beside her for a moment, staring at her daughter’s peaceful face. So innocent. So unaware. The ache in her chest spread slowly until it became hard to breathe. Her phone buzzed on the nightstand, breaking the silence. A strange number flashed on the screen. Normally, she wouldn’t answer, not this late, but something in her gut told her to pick up. “Hello?” she said cautiously. “Cassia Munroe,” a woman’s voice replied, calm but cutting, “are you aware that Sienna Vale has been out of a coma for three months now?” Cassie staggered, her hand trembling as she gripped the phone. Her voice cracked. “No. Sienna is still in a coma. And my name is Cassie, not Cassia. You have the wrong number.” “Cassia,” the voice repeated, calm and deliberate, “your best friend has been out of a coma for three months. And your husband is planning to divorce you and marry her.” The air in the room thickened. Cassie let out a short, disbelieving laugh. “No, that’s not possible.” Sienna was AS, and so was her husband. That was one of the reasons they couldn’t get married, aside from the fact that she always loved her husband, Frederick Jones. They were childhood friends because his parents took in Cassie when her parents died and Frederick always treated her like a sister, ignoring her feelings for him when she turned eighteen. His parents tried to play the matchmaker but it didn’t work because Frederick was in love with Cassie’s best friend, Sienna. Not until a week before their wedding when Frederick found out about their sickle status - AS. As hard as it was, he still wanted to marry Sienna but she refused. For reasons never known to Cassie, Frederick had proposed to her and they got married in the event that was meant to be his and Sienna. Things were fine in the beginning but after Sienna’s accident a few months after the wedding, everything changed. Frederick turned cold and distant. Intimacy had been missing from their marriage ever since she conceived Rose, but she had been the perfect wife. Loyal. Patient. Hopeful. “Look, who are you? Why are you trying to cause trouble in my home? Don’t call this number again,” Cassie said firmly, her voice rising. Not every marriage was supposed to be lovey-dovey. She had accepted that. But a cheating husband? That was a different story. “I won’t,” the caller replied. “But you’ll come looking for me. And when you do, my name is The Whistleblower.” The line went dead before Cassie could ask another question. For the first time, she did something she’d never done before. She dialed Frederick’s number while he was away from home. It was switched off. She walked back to Rose’s room. Her daughter was fast asleep, her tiny chest rising and falling in rhythm. Cassie sucked in a breath, her heart pounding. It was already 8 p.m., and Frederick wasn’t home. But that was normal. He often slept at the office when work pressure mounted. Sienna Vale. The name once sounded sweet. Now it tasted bitter on her tongue. Gathering her courage, Cassie dialed Sienna’s number. To her shock, it went through. After six long years of being unreachable, the line connected. A honeyed voice answered, music thumping in the background. “Hello? Who is this?” “Sienna… when did you get well?” Cassie asked, her voice barely audible. The line cut off instantly. When she tried again, it was switched off. Cassie’s heart thudded. Her vision blurred with tears. Only one person had the answers she needed. The next morning, while preparing Rose for school, Cassie asked casually, “So, what do you and Daddy do when he takes you out?” Rose looked up, guilt flickering in her eyes. “Dad said I shouldn’t tell anyone.” Cassie’s heart clenched, but she kept her smile. Her husband and daughter were keeping secrets from her? “Why not trust me to keep this secret too?” she said gently. “I promise I won’t tell anyone.” Rose hesitated. “Aunt Sienna said if you find out, Daddy won’t bring me anymore.” “I won’t stop you from going where you want with you father,” Cassie said, her voice steady. “But you have to tell me, Rose. I’m your mother.” Rose looked down, her black curly hair falling across her cheek. “Aunt Sienna said Dad was supposed to marry her, but you came between them. She said she’s pregnant with Daddy’s baby and they’ll be married soon.” A pool of tears threatened to spill, but Cassie refused to cry in front of her daughter. Rose always wanted a younger sibling, so she could understand her daughter’s excitement and reason for keeping her father’s secret. “For how long have you known her?” she asked, her voice barely holding together. “Not too long. After you celebrated my birthday, she said it was too small and held a bigger one at her house,” Rose replied innocently. So it was true. Just as The Whistleblower had said. “Good girl. Don’t tell them I know. And remember to eat your fruits, okay?” Rose nodded and hugged her mother. But her next question pierced Cassie’s heart like a blade. “Mom, if Dad and Aunt Sienna get married, can I live with them?” *** A few hours later, Cassie stood at Frederick’s office in downtown Chicago. The receptionist looked up, confused. “I’m sorry, ma’am. Mr. and Mrs. Jones are busy. No one is allowed in.” ‘Mr. and Mrs. Jones.’ Frederick never allowed her to change her last name, claiming it was unnecessary, but now she knew it was because he still reserved it for his one and only love, Sienna. How was she supposed to introduce herself now? Her heart ached. But she blamed herself for ignoring the signs, for staying silent. Now, it was time to make things right. At twenty-six, she could still turn her life around. Cassie turned to leave, but something inside her snapped. She spun back and strode toward Frederick’s door with the speed of lightning, pushing it open without knocking. Sienna was perched on his desk, her back to the door, their lips pressed together. Startled, Sienna jumped off and moved to the sofa, adjusting her clothes. “Cassie, what are you doing here?” she asked, avoiding eye contact. Frederick looked stunned, guilt and relief battling in his expression. He fumbled with his shirt, closing a button. “Cassie, why are you here?” She had never visited his office before. Seeing him like this was humiliating. Cassie used to look at him with respect and adoration. Now, only a hollow, skeletal gaze remained in her eyes. She took a deep breath, silently promising herself she wouldn’t cry, no matter how much it hurt. Once upon a time, Frederick was the love of her life. They grew up in the same house, and she loved him because of how he took care of her, and of course, how handsome he was. She thought their marriage would be one made in heaven, but he only showed her hell. Cassie had no idea how intimacy felt like because she hadn’t had it for over six years now. All along, she blamed work, but her husband was still etched on his ex, and as soon as she woke up, they set things ablaze. Now she knew. From the beginning, Frederick never loved her, and never will. So why had he married her? The question hung in the air like a thin wire, taut and dangerous. “I couldn’t reach you last night,” she said calmly, “so I brought the document to your office.” She was shattered inside, but her composure was flawless. She walked to his desk and placed the envelope down. Frederick’s face hardened. “What document is this?” He reached for it, but Cassie made it easy. “I want a divorce.” Chapter 2 – The Twin The request sounded simple enough, but to Frederick Jones, nothing was ever simple, not when it came to Cassie. On their wedding day, he had felt like a man sealing a business contract rather than making a vow of love. When they got intimate that night, it was purely out of duty, the fact that he needed an heir. The moment she mentioned the pregnancy, his job was done. He had been her first, but Frederick’s first and only love had always been Sienna. He had no regrets rekindling that flame. Cassie had loved him since childhood, but he had only ever loved her as a sister. That changed after he received proof of her involvement in Sienna’s accident. The brotherly affection he once felt turned into something darker—loathing. The only reason he stayed was their daughter, Rose. After Sienna woke from the aftermath of the accident, Frederick found another reason to believe Cassie had faked Sienna’s sickle cell status to prevent their marriage. And if that wasn’t enough, he had proof Cassie had cheated on him after their wedding with her close friend, Sebastian Hale. A woman with this level of sin did not deserve pity. His heart had always belonged to Sienna Vale. Marrying Cassie had been the price of power. So he never cared, only made her suffer the consequences of her actions throughout their seven-year marriage. Now, seated in his glass-walled corner office overlooking Chicago, Frederick felt both victorious and hollow. From this height, the city stretched endlessly beneath him, a living map of everything he owned, everything he’d sacrificed. Becoming CEO of the Novarion Group had been his parents’ reward for marrying Cassie. She had given him the family image he needed, even a beautiful daughter. But now, that arrangement had reached its end. He leaned back in his Italian leather chair, his expression unreadable. “Have you thought this through?” he asked, voice clipped, detached. Cassie stood across from him, her reflection framed in the polished glass behind him. There had been a time when his voice alone could make her heart flutter. Now, it only made her stomach tighten. He was still devastatingly handsome—dark hair, chiseled jaw, eyes that could charm a room, but every glance reminded her of what she had lost. “You won’t have custody of Rose,” Frederick said coldly, his tone final. Cassie’s lips curved into a faint, knowing smile. “She already chose you and her.” His brows knit together. “She told you?” “I forced it out of her,” Cassie admitted quietly. “And I promised not to tell you. But I hope you’ll be wise about how you use that information.” Frederick exhaled slowly, the faintest flicker of guilt in his eyes before it vanished. He nodded once, businesslike, and reached for his pen. “If you’re truly giving up custody, with only visitation rights, then I’ll have my lawyer finalize this.” Beside him, Sienna sat with calculated grace, honey-blonde hair perfectly arranged, lipstick a shade too red for sincerity. A thin smile curved her lips until Frederick’s next words wiped it away. “My lawyer will get in touch about the paperwork,” he said evenly. “And I’ll determine what alimony you’re entitled to.” Sienna’s posture stiffened at the mention of money, her smile freezing. But Cassie only tilted her head slightly, her calm unnerving. “Keep your money, Frederick,” she said softly. “And I’ll keep mine.” Frederick’s pen stilled. He looked up, composure cracking into irritation. “You have nothing, Cassie. Don’t be foolish.” Or was she trying to reunite with Sebastian? His tone sharpened, but beneath the arrogance was discomfort, truth he didn’t want to face. His parents would insist he treat her fairly, and that alone restrained him. Otherwise, he wouldn’t care if she disappeared entirely or made up with her old flame. Cassie’s voice remained steady. “If you insist on paying alimony, then I’ll take five billion.” Sienna’s eyes flashed, disbelief and anger mingling. “Five—what?” Frederick slammed his pen down. “Be serious.” Cassie’s gaze didn’t waver. She didn’t want Frederick to have a share in what was hers, even if it wasn’t as much as his. “That, or nothing. You decide. Either you pay what I know I’m worth, or I walk away with my dignity intact.” Frederick scoffed internally at her mention of ‘dignity’ but couldn’t hide his confusion. Her money? As far as he knew, Cassie had nothing but her designer wardrobe and the credit cards he’d given her. Yet there was something in her tone, quiet, determined, that made him hesitate. When she turned to leave, Sienna rose abruptly and caught her by the arm. “Cassie, please, don’t be like this. I never meant for any of this to happen. But we don’t choose who our hearts beat for… sickle status or not. I don’t blame you for changing the result.” Cassie’s eyes swept over her—flawless makeup, glittering jewelry, perfection that mocked her own disheveled simplicity. Her loose waves, bare face, and casual dress made her look out of place in this cold, luxurious office. Yet somehow, she looked more real than either of them. “Changing the result? I did no such thing,” Cassie denied, but Frederick snapped. “Stop the lies. I spoke to the doctor. He said you paid him to have it changed.” Cassie had no idea what was going on, but one thing was certain. Someone had set her up, and Frederick didn’t care to investigate it well enough. Since she had no desire to stay in a marriage with a cheating husband, they could think what they liked. “Sure, Sienna,” Cassie said evenly. “There is nothing hidden that will not be brought to light. I hope that when that time comes, you’ll have the dignity to stand, as I have mine leaving.” Sienna flinched, her fingers tightening on Cassie’s arm. Bitterness ran deep. “Fred never loved you,” she hissed. “He only married you to secure his position from his twin brother.” Cassie blinked, startled. “Twin brother?” So that was the reason he married her? She’d heard about his twin once or twice, but also that they weren’t on good terms and had never met. Before she could ask more, Sienna’s grip turned violent. Cassie instinctively shoved her away. Sienna stumbled backward, the sharp heel of her stiletto catching the rug. “Ahh!” she cried, clutching her abdomen. Frederick was at her side in an instant. “Sienna!” His voice broke for the first time that day. One arm slid behind her back, the other under her knees. Then he froze. There was blood. Cassie’s breath hitched when he glared at her. “I—she grabbed me—” Frederick’s gaze snapped up, dark and furious. “If anything happens to her,” he said through gritted teeth, “you can forget your alimony. And you’ll never see Rose again.” Cassie stood frozen as he lifted Sienna effortlessly into his arms and carried her out. The sound of his shoes echoing down the marble corridor stayed with her long after he vanished. She didn’t know what possessed her to follow them to the hospital. Maybe guilt. Maybe desperation. Maybe the need to know whether she had truly hurt someone, or if fate had simply decided she’d been punished enough. Her thoughts spiraled as she drove through the streets of Chicago. ‘Was it my fault? Did I push her too hard?’ She didn’t even see the oncoming car until the glare of its headlights filled her windshield. The impact jolted her sideways—metal against metal, the sharp crack of glass, a screech of brakes. Her sedan spun once before she wrestled it to the shoulder of the road. Her chest rose and fell in rapid bursts. The world steadied, but her nerves didn’t. The other car, a Bentley Flying Spur, sleek and silver, came to a stop a few feet away. The door opened, and a tall man stepped out. He was strikingly handsome, broad-shouldered, dark-haired, and commanding in his gray suit. There was something disarmingly familiar about him. When his eyes met hers, Cassie’s breath caught. “Frederick?” she whispered, stunned. The man’s expression didn’t change. His voice was deeper, smoother, edged with authority. “You know my twin brother?” Cassie blinked, disoriented. The resemblance was uncanny, but this man carried himself differently. His posture was stronger, his eyes sharper, his aura more dangerous. Her heart thudded in her chest. This must be Franklin, she realized quietly, as he assessed her like a stranger from another world. Everyone in the USA elite knew the name Franklin Roth, the reclusive twin. The one who’d left Wall Street years ago to build a global empire from the shadows. Rumor had it his wealth dwarfed even the Novarion’s. Glancing at the dent in his car, he sighed. “You’re lucky I hit the brakes in time.” Cassie swallowed, still trembling. “I’m sorry for the damage. Just give me your mechanic’s number. I’ll handle the cost.” He stared at her, incredulous. “You?” His tone dripped with amusement. “Repair my car? Can you even afford the tires?” “We’ll work something out,” she said seriously, her voice steadier than she felt. She didn’t want to insist she could pay, especially not when she had no idea what his relationship with Frederick was like. Franklin studied her for a moment, his gaze sharp and unreadable. Then he said, “Well, my parents are expecting me to bring a woman. Pretend to be my date, and I’ll let it go.” Cassie blinked, stunned. “Pretend to be your date?” Chapter 3 – Do You Even Know Who She Is? The city noise faded behind them, replaced by the hum of tension, electric and unexpected. Cassie stared at him, unsure whether to laugh or run. She had just lost her husband. Now his twin was asking her to play a part in his world. And somehow, deep inside, she knew that saying yes might change everything. What kind of cruel fate was this? Would he have made the same offer if he knew she was his soon to be ex-sister-in-law? “I’d rather pay for the damages,” she said seriously, her voice calm but firm. Franklin took offense, her rejection landing like a slap. He pulled a notepad from his coat pocket, scribbled something, and handed it to her. “There. Call my mechanic and have it fixed.” Without another word, he turned and stepped into his Bentley. Just then, a Rolls-Royce pulled up beside him. As Franklin disappeared into the back seat, a sharply dressed man exited and approached Cassie to discuss the damages. The amount was staggering. But Cassie didn’t flinch. She opened her banking app and transferred the full amount on the spot, stunning the man into silence. She looked too simple, too unassuming, to have that kind of money. Cassie arrived at the hospital, her heels clicking softly against the polished floor. As she neared Sienna’s ward, voices drifted through the door, sharp, cruel, and unmistakably directed at her. “Your wife is so evil. Good thing you’re divorcing her.” “Jealousy kills. The sooner the better. I hope you both make a new baby soon.” Cassie froze. Her heart twisted. They had lost the baby, because of her. She took a step back, dazed, and bumped into a nurse. The tray of supplies crashed to the floor, shattering the silence. The noise drew attention. The door opened, and out stepped Frederick, flanked by his two closest friends, Lucien Veyron and Asher Davis. And then, Franklin. He stood protectively beside Frederick, his expression hard. “That’s the crazy woman who hit my car.” This was the first time he was seeing his twin brother in decades. Separated just months after birth, their biological parents had agreed to cut all contact with Franklin. It was a decision rooted in secrecy and sacrifice. For years, silence reigned until inheritance came into play. When the time came to pass down the family legacy, their parents reached out. Frederick, unmarried and deemed unprepared, was no longer their ideal heir. They turned to Franklin. But by then, Franklin was already managing his adoptive parents’ empire and building his own global venture. He had no time, and even less interest, in fighting for an inheritance he didn’t need. Without hesitation, he let Frederick have it all. Years passed. Franklin expanded, evolved, and eventually decided to move some of his branches to Chicago. It was then he contacted Frederick. They agreed to meet—two strangers bound by blood, finally facing each other. Who could have predicted that their long-awaited reunion would take place in a hospital? Frederick’s cold gaze locked onto Cassie. “I hope she paid for the damages. That’s her.” “Your wife?” Franklin’s face twisted in distaste. Now he understood the reason for Cassie’s rejection of his offer. “Ex,” Frederick corrected. “I’ll make sure we finalize the divorce soon enough. And I’m not giving her a dime.” “Fred, I didn’t mean to—” Cassie began, but Frederick cut her off. “I saw everything. You don’t deserve to be a mother.” Cassie’s breath caught. Sienna could have everything. Frederick, the house, the title, but taking Rose completely? That was a wound she couldn’t bear. For her daughter, Cassie would do anything. Even cast away her pride. “Please, Fred. You have to believe me. You can’t keep my daughter from me.” Frederick’s eyes burned with disgust. “I warned you. I saw everything. You knew she was pregnant, and you still pushed her.” “She gripped my hand tightly. I was just trying to free myself,” Cassie said, her voice cracking. A tear slid down her cheek, but Frederick was unmoved. “Liar. Get out of here.” “Fred, are you alright? Why are you yelling?” Sienna’s voice floated from inside the room. Cassie watched as they all rushed back to her side, leaving her alone in the hallway. She turned away, letting the wind dry her tears as she made her way to Rose’s school. But Frederick was already ahead. Two bodyguards and a nanny stood waiting at the school gates. When Rose stepped out, her eyes widened in fear as she saw her mother being held back. “Mommy, why are they taking me?” Cassie struggled against the guard’s grip, but it was no use. One of them led Rose away. “Your daddy and Aunt Sienna are waiting to see you,” the nanny said gently. Rose calmed instantly. Cassie’s heart shattered as she watched her only beloved daughter being taken away. Tears she had vowed not to shed streamed down her cheeks. She would proceed with the divorce. But she would fight for her daughter. “Don’t worry, Rose,” she whispered, blowing a kiss as the car pulled away. “I’ll come back for you. I promise.” Back at the hospital, Sienna curled into Frederick like a second skin. “Our baby is fine, right?” she asked, her voice trembling. “I was just trying to apologize to her. I deserve it, for taking you from her.” “Shhh,” Frederick murmured, kissing the top of her head. “You did nothing wrong. We lost the child, but we’ll make another one. Don’t worry.” Franklin’s phone rang. He stepped out to take the call. Lucien and Asher followed, giving the couple privacy. Inside, Sienna’s face paled. “We lost the child?” she whispered. “No. It can’t be. It must be a mistake.” Frederick held her tighter. “It’s fine. I’ll make her pay.” Sienna shook her head. “No. I forgive her. You should too. I’m the one who came between you both.” “No. You are too kind. I only married her for convenience because you slipped into a coma after the accident. I never loved her.” “But Rose…” “She won’t have access to Rose. I’ll make sure of it.” Franklin returned, his expression unreadable. “Sienna, I’m sorry for your loss. I hope God blesses you with another child soon.” “Thank you, Franklin. You’re so kind,” Sienna sobbed. “I’m sorry I didn’t bring flowers. I left in a hurry when I heard about the incident. I have to fly back to Atherton tonight, but I’ll send a gift later.” As he turned to leave, his phone rang again. Seeing it was his mechanic, he answered in front of them. “Sir, the car is undergoing repairs,” the mechanic said. Franklin frowned. “Who made the down payment?” “The woman, sir. She transferred the full amount into my account.” Franklin froze. Earlier, Frederick had claimed Cassie was just a housewife living off him. “What? Are you sure?” “Yes, sir.” “Alright. I’ll call you back.” Franklin hung up, his gaze narrowing. He turned to Frederick. “Didn’t you say your wife, sorry, ex, was a stay-at-home mom with just a $4,000 allowance?” “Yes.” “So how did she pay for damages worth $214,000?” “I hope she didn’t touch the money in our joint account,” Frederick muttered, pulling out his phone to check. But the account was untouched. Before he could say more, the door swung open. Three figures entered the room: Adrian and Corinne Jones, Frederick and Franklin’s biological parents, and their youngest son, Julius Jones. Sienna’s head dropped instantly. Frederick stood to greet them. “Mom, Dad, I’m glad you’re here. I’m divorcing Cassie.” A sharp slap cracked across his face, nearly knocking him off balance. Franklin stepped between them, trying to mediate, but their father’s glare was molten. “What do you mean you’re divorcing Cassie?” Adrian thundered. “Do you even know who she is?” Chapter 4 – The Son We Gave Away The room fell into stunned silence as Franklin stepped through the doorway. Adrian Jones, the proud patriarch, and Corinne, his emotionally torn wife, stared at the man they had once given up—a decision buried under years of silence and sacrifice. Franklin, calm and composed, carried the quiet dignity of someone raised with love, but not by them. They had kept their vow to Corinne’s cousin’s best friend, the woman who adopted Franklin when desperation had forced their hand. Seven years ago, they had allowed Corinne to speak with Franklin once, when they tried to offer him the CEO position as a form of restitution. Franklin had declined, though he’d shown interest in meeting his twin brother, Frederick. They had shared contact details, but nothing had come of it, or so they thought. Now, it was clear the brothers had been in contact all along. This should have been a joyful reunion. But something darker loomed, something volatile enough to destroy everything they had built. “What do you mean you’re divorcing Cassie?” Adrian’s voice cracked like thunder. “Do you even know who she is?” They had rushed over the moment Cassie informed them of the divorce, eager to confront their son, only to find him here, with his mistress. Frederick Jones, the emotionally volatile heir, let out a cold, mocking laugh. “Of course I do. You brought her into our home when she was four. All she ever did was freeload.” Adrian’s hand flew up again, but Franklin stepped in, intercepting the slap mid-air. “Mr. and Mrs. Jones,” Franklin said calmly, his voice firm but respectful. “I don’t know you well, but my parents never described you as violent.” Corinne swallowed hard. The son they had given up was addressing them like strangers, and rightly so. They had forfeited the right to familiarity. Still, she was relieved. He had turned out better than they’d dared hope. “Franklin, this isn’t how we imagined meeting you,” she said softly. “There’s so much you don’t know. But some people… some people cannot be messed with.” “And who might those be?” Frederick asked with a sneer, his tone dripping with contempt. “Cassie? That’s funny.” Adrian’s face darkened. “All our sacrifices… wasted. We should’ve given you up instead.” Franklin blinked, stunned. Before he could respond, his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen, then looked up apologetically. “I’m sorry. I have to go. Perhaps we’ll speak again, when things are less… tense.” “Can’t you stay a little longer?” Corinne pleaded. But Franklin only stared at her, detached, distant. Even after learning the truth from his adoptive parents, he still saw them as strangers. “I promised my mom I was going to bring a woman home. She’s been waiting, calling.” Corinne’s brow furrowed. That wasn’t what she heard, but before she could ask, he was gone. “I think we should leave too,” said Lucien, one of Frederick’s friends. Asher nodded, both men edging toward the door. This wasn’t the visit they’d expected. Sienna, Frederick’s mistress, stood frozen, feeling exposed and alone. In her condition, she had never imagined being at the center of such chaos. If Frederick couldn’t stop his parents from slapping him, how could he possibly protect her? “Fred, I can’t believe you left Cassie for this caricature,” Julius, Frederick’s younger brother, spat. “I heard she had a miscarriage, but her face paint’s still flawless. Cassie never wore makeup, and she was always beautiful.” Sienna’s eyes welled with tears. Frederick raised his hand, fury blazing, but Adrian stepped in, blocking the blow. “Try it, Fred,” he warned coldly. “And I’ll strip you of everything you hold dear.” Frederick lowered his hand, but not his voice. “Isn’t it too late for that? You signed everything over to me the moment I married Cassie. After she gave birth to Rose, you stepped down as chairman.” “That was for Cassie,” Adrian snapped. Frederick shrugged. “Well, everything’s in my name now. And I get to marry the woman I’ve always loved. Cassie tried to tear us apart, but fate brought us back together.” “Don’t blame Cassie for your twisted urges,” Adrian growled. “Don’t make this mistake. There’s more to her than you know, and we can’t tell you everything. Not yet.” “I know more than enough,” Frederick hissed. “She’s a shameless whore. A murderer. A conniving—” “Stop it!” Corinne cried. But Frederick’s voice cracked with grief. “No, Mom. Cassie pushed Sienna out of jealousy. I saw it. She killed our child.” What he didn’t know was that Cassie had already told his parents everything, and they believed her. “You should be ashamed,” Adrian roared. “You’re still married to Cassie, and you dare speak of losing a child? I never loved your mother before marrying her, but I never cheated on her. You’re shameless. I regret having you.” He began coughing violently. Corinne rushed to his side, rubbing his chest. “It’s alright, Adrian. Let’s go find Cassie. We can’t lose her as our daughter-in-law.” Frederick shook his head. “Too late. The divorce is already in motion. There’s nothing you can do.” “You imbecile,” Adrian spat. “You never deserved her. Do you even know who she is? Give it two years, you’ll be begging her on your knees.” “Over my dead body,” Frederick snapped. Adrian’s final words shattered the last of his son’s confidence. “Then let’s see you marry that gold digger. And don’t ever call us your parents again if you do.” They stormed out, dragging Julius behind. The boy glanced back, his eyes filled with disappointment. Frederick had once been his hero. Now, even at fifteen, Julius knew better. “Daddy!” Rose’s voice rang out as she ran toward him. “Those men wouldn’t let me see Mommy!” Adrian and Corinne froze. “What did you say?” Corinne asked. “Grandma, Grandpa,” Rose said, breathless. “Mommy came to school, but the bodyguards pushed her away.” Adrian’s chest tightened. He turned to Frederick. “What’s going on?” “Cassie isn’t fit to be a mother,” Frederick said coldly. “Not after what she did.” Sienna coughed gently. “It’s alright, Fred. I hold nothing against her.” Her voice was soft, warm, but Corinne’s eyes burned with hatred. “Oh, stop pretending,” she snapped. “Mom, please,” Frederick said. “Don’t talk to her like that.” Rose ran to Sienna’s bedside. “Aunt Sienna, are you sick? Why are you in that bed?” Sienna whispered something to her, too soft for anyone else to hear. Adrian stepped forward and pulled the girl away. “If you’re divorcing Cassie, fine,” he said. “But Rose stays with her mother.” He hoped this would shake some sense into his son. But Frederick’s response was chilling. “If you take her, I’ll involve the police.” His parents didn’t listen. Sienna wept. “I never meant for this to happen. Fred, your parents will never accept me. We’ve already lost the baby. Maybe… maybe we should let each other go.” Frederick’s expression softened. He pulled her close. “Don’t worry. They’re just angry. They’ll calm down. Everything will fall into place.” He gave instructions to his bodyguards, then returned to her side. *** Together with Rose, Adrian and Corinne arrived at the mansion Frederick once shared with Cassie. Their hearts sank at the sight of her—pale, weary, but still holding herself with quiet dignity. Cassie’s eyes lit up when she saw her daughter. She dropped to her knees and embraced her tightly. But the moment was shattered by the wail of police sirens. “Mommy, what’s going on?” Rose whimpered. “Why are the police here?” Chapter 5 – Tell That to Your Daddy Cassie pulled Rose tightly into her arms, holding her as if she could shield her from everything waiting outside those walls. “Rose, sweetheart… please go upstairs and wait for me in your room, okay?” The little girl hesitated, her brows knitting, the innocence in her eyes quickly flooding with fear. “Are they coming for you? Daddy said you did something bad. Is it true?” Cassie’s heart plunged, a painful weight settling so quickly it stole her breath. Across the living room, Adrian and Corinne stiffened. Julius stood by the far corner near the staircase, his jaw tight, fury radiating off him as he glared at the mention of his brother’s name. But Cassie steadied herself. She had been a mother far longer than she had been a victim. “You don’t have to worry about anything,” she whispered, brushing a curl behind Rose’s ear. “And I might be gone for a little while… but you told me you wanted to stay with Daddy and Aunt Sienna for now, right?” Rose nodded twice, small, hesitant dips of her head, and Cassie felt the heartbreak lodge even deeper. She swallowed it, forcing a gentle smile. “Good girl. Go upstairs. We’ll talk about it later, okay?” She didn’t know if she’d ever get to have that talk. But she had at least this moment. Rose ran up the steps, her footsteps echoing softly through the house, just as a firm knock rattled the front door. Adrian moved to answer, but Cassie lifted a hand. “I’ll go.” Still, they followed—Adrian on her right, Corinne on her left, Julius lingering behind them like a silent wall of support. Two uniformed officers stood on the doorstep, their expressions apologetic but professional. “Are you Cassie Monroe?” one asked. Cassie nodded slowly. The other officer unfolded a document, the paper catching the light from the foyer chandelier. “Ma’am, we have a warrant for your arrest on charges of assault resulting in miscarriage.” The world went silent. So Frederick had actually done it. He’d taken it this far. The realization hit her like a physical blow, her blood turning cold as ice. He believed she had intentionally harmed Sienna. After everything, after all the years, he believed that of her. She remembered the day she first brought Sienna home, back when the girl had been fragile and frightened. Frederick hadn’t even wanted to look at her, but Cassie had insisted, encouraged, defended her. She had helped Sienna find a place in their lives… and somehow Sienna had taken hers. Now she was being framed for something she didn’t do. Corinne’s face drained of color. “This is outrageous. Frederick filed this? My own son?” Her voice trembled with disbelief and disgust. “I raised better than this. Or at least I thought I did.” “I’m sorry, ma’am,” the officer said quietly. “We’re just executing the order.” Cassie shook her head, tears flooding her vision. “This is a mistake,” she choked out. “I didn’t hurt her. She grabbed me—I only pulled away. I didn’t attack her, I didn’t push her. I swear it.” Adrian stepped forward, his presence suddenly towering, voice edged with restrained fury. “Nobody touches her. Not in this house. Not until I talk to my son.” He pulled out his phone, his tone sharpening like a blade. “Frederick. Two officers just arrived for Cassie. What the hell have you done?” Cassie could hear Frederick’s voice faintly through the speaker—cold, clipped, defensive. “I told you not to take my daughter to her,” he said. “I’m willing to let it go if she signs a waiver stating she’ll never see Rose again.” Cassie felt her knees weaken. She might have collapsed if Corinne hadn’t quickly moved to her side, wrapping her arms around Cassie’s shaking shoulders. “It’s okay, dear,” she whispered. “We’re right here. We’ll fix this.” Adrian’s voice dropped lower, a warning, quiet but lethal. “Withdraw the charges, Frederick. Now. Or I’ll contact the silent shareholder and have them pull their stake.” Cassie stiffened. That silent shareholder… was her. Those shares were meant for Rose someday. Never for destruction. Never for this. A beat of silence passed on the line. “You heard me,” Adrian continued. “Fix this. Today. You’ve humiliated your wife enough. I won’t let you ruin her life.” On the other end, Frederick exhaled sharply, his voice cold as ice. “This is between me and her. She knows what she has to do.” “And I am your father,” Adrian snapped. “If these officers drag her out of this home, you’ll be preparing my funeral next.” Frederick scoffed. “All I want is my daughter. Why are you threatening me? If you want to die, that’s on you. And if your precious shareholder wants to withdraw, let them. But Cassie will not take my daughter.” Cassie felt something inside her break. An emotional snap she wasn’t sure she could recover from. Twenty-two years of knowing him. Seven years of marriage. And this was the man he had become. “It’s okay, Dad,” she whispered. “Let him have Rose.” “What? No.” Adrian turned to her, stunned. “You are her mother.” “And she’s your granddaughter,” Cassie said quietly. “I know you’ll protect her.” Regret washed over Adrian’s face. He wished he had never named Frederick CEO, had never handed him the company’s reins. But Cassie had never complained, never once. Maybe that had been the real mistake. “I’ll bring Rose down now,” he said at last. “Tell the officers to—” “No,” Frederick interrupted over the phone. “Let the officers bring her. I don’t trust you, Dad. Not when you’re taking Cassie’s side.” His words splintered Cassie’s heart completely, and she yelled for her daughter. “Rose, come down here, please.” Rose appeared at the top of the stairs, eyes wide, face pale. Cassie knelt as her daughter rushed into her arms. “Rose,” she whispered, smoothing her hair back. “These officers… they’re taking you to Daddy. I’m so sorry I won’t see you for a little while.” Tears gathered in Rose’s eyes. “Why, Mommy?” Cassie swallowed the pain burning in her throat. “You said you wanted to live with Daddy and Aunt Sienna for now… but listen to me.” She held Rose’s cheeks gently, forcing a brave smile she didn’t feel. “I will come back for you. Tell that to your daddy.” For the first time since all this started, she felt certainty. Not in Frederick, not in justice, but in the truth. Evil never lasted forever. She would gather proof. She would expose the lies. And she would return for her daughter. The moment Rose disappeared with the officers, Cassie’s strength shattered. She crumbled onto the floor, sobbing. “Am I a bad mother? Was it wrong to love him?” Julius dropped beside her, pulling her into a steady, grounding embrace. “Cass,” he murmured, fury simmering beneath his calm, “my brother is the fool. And he will regret this.” Adrian exhaled heavily. “You should’ve let me destroy him. We created the man he is today.” Cassie shook her head, lifting her tear-streaked face. “What about Julius? He’s a Jones too. And what about Rose? If the company falls, her future falls with it.” Corinne stepped forward and gathered Cassie into her arms. “After everything he’s done,” she whispered, “you still think of this family. That alone proves he never deserved you. I’ll help push the divorce through… but Cassie, what’s the plan?” Chapter 6 – Not Again Cassie stared at the couple she had long come to call her parents and at the boy who had grown into the closest thing she knew to a brother. Their faces were a blend of worry, heartbreak, and helplessness, a reflection of everything she felt but refused to show. “I already have some money saved up aside from what I invested in the Novarion Group,” she said softly. “My online followers are a lot, but now I want to venture into real business.” Losing her daughter to her soon-to-be ex-husband came with both brutal heartache and unexpected clarity. The downside was obvious: she was going to miss Rose — miss teaching her, miss watching her grow, miss the small routines that only a mother could give. But on the bright side, she suddenly had time. Time she could either drown in grief or use to build something for the future she still believed in. Her online businesses had been built for flexibility, but now she could pour herself into them fully, maybe even transform them into something bigger than she had ever imagined. “And how can we help?” Adrian asked, ready to move mountains. Cassie hesitated. Frederick looked so much like his father that right now, she couldn’t bear being surrounded by anything that mirrored her pain. “Thanks, Dad,” she murmured, “but I’d really like to do this on my own. I want to leave Chicago for a while. I’m thinking about Manhattan… or Palo Alto. I’m still deciding.” Both places were hubs for the wealthy, the elite, the influential. If she marketed her products right, she could tap into their world — a world Frederick always assumed she could never survive in without him. Adrian and Corinne exchanged a glance, their sadness evident, but they understood she needed space. “Just… keep in touch, will you?” Corinne asked. Cassie inhaled slowly. She had no idea how long it would take for the pain to fade. Maybe not until she regained custody or simply had the right to see her daughter again. For now, the only thing that might numb the ache was work. “I can’t promise,” she admitted quietly. “I’m going to be very busy, and honestly… I need to get away from everything that reminds me of Fred. Just keep an eye on Rose for me.” Her honesty stung, but they accepted it. Their ache could never compare to hers. Corinne sighed. “Rose will be just fine, but maybe we should’ve matched you with Franklin instead. He seems more responsible, though his last name is Roth. It’s not too late. He’s still single. I mean, not married.” Cassie choked on her saliva. “Mom, I’ve had my bitter taste of marriage. All I want now is to rebuild myself and do all the things I couldn’t do. I want my daughter to be proud when she sees me again.” Sienna had managed to win Rose over. How, Cassie still didn’t understand, but she was determined to change that someday. “You’re so much like your mother,” Corinne added softly. “Your father spent three years chasing her, another four courting her. She was too focused on her career. By the time she agreed to marry, she was thirty-six. They struggled for years to have a child and finally had you at forty-five.” Cassie blinked, stunned. Her real parents were a blur in her memory. She had been too young. Adrian and Corinne had filled their roles so effortlessly after their deaths. “I believe they lived their lives,” she whispered. “Now I get to live mine. And you two… you’ve been the best parents anyone could ask for. I’ll never forget everything you’ve done for me.” They had seen her through childhood infections, learning difficulties, setbacks that would’ve crushed most kids. They stood by her every step. She remembered all of it. “Alright,” Adrian sighed, “we don’t have much, but manage two billion.” He grabbed his phone to initiate a transfer. Cassie quickly stopped him. “No. Please don’t. I made enough from my online businesses. I’ll survive.” “No way I’m letting you go empty-handed. And I hope that foolish son of mine gives you a worthy alimony.” “I told him, jokingly, that I’d take five billion, and he nearly had a stroke,” Cassie muttered. “Honestly, I don’t want anything from him. He can keep it.” “But he’s worth over twenty billion,” Adrian protested. “Five is nothing.” Cassie shook her head firmly. “If I make it one day, I don’t want him thinking it’s because of something he gave me. I want him to know I can live without him.” Adrian fell silent, moved. “Then I’m investing this money in your business. I trust your abilities.” Cassie opened her mouth to argue, but her phone buzzed — the transfer had already gone through. And he’d added extra. Of course he had. “Thanks, Dad. I’ll make it up to you with shares later.” He didn’t want shares, but he wouldn’t argue, knowing she might refund him if he insisted. Cassie truly had no idea what she was worth. If she did, she’d realize she could live comfortably for the rest of her life without working another day. At the right time, they cat would be let out of the bag and they were sure it would be too late for Frederick. “I’m gonna miss your cooking,” Adrian said suddenly. “I always ordered from your app and joined your fitness and healthy living programs.” Cassie blinked. “You do?” “Beaver 5 — that’s me,” Julius added, smiling shyly. Cassie’s jaw dropped. Beaver 5 was the fan who asked endless questions and ordered half her menu every week. “No way.” “Now you know. We’ll all miss your food,” Julius said. Cassie smiled sadly. “Don’t worry. I might be closer than you think.” After hugging her repeatedly, Adrian, Corinne, and Julius finally left. Alone, Cassie booked an appointment with a divorce lawyer for the next day, then made a call she never thought she would make. He picked up on the second ring. “Cass…” His voice cracked. “I never thought I’d hear from you again.” Cassie smiled faintly. “Seb, I need your help.” “Anything. Anything at all. I owe you so much.” “You owe me nothing,” she replied. But the deep, pained voice on the other end disagreed. “Yes, Cass. I do. But… I can’t tell you over the phone.” “Well, if you’re still in Tribeca, then prepare to host me. Unless you’re married now.” “Wait, what’s going on?” Sebastian sounded equal parts disturbed and excited. “I’m getting a divorce.” “Oh hell. When’s it over? I’ll come get you.” Cassie chuckled softly. “Relax. We have a lot to catch up on. The divorce is still ongoing.” “And I have a lot of apologies to offer,” he added quietly. Cassie frowned. She couldn’t remember anything he should be apologizing for. “Okay. See you soon.” Later that night, she began packing. The housekeeper, Sara, approached. “Mrs. Jones… what’s going on?” Cassie smiled. “I’m leaving soon. It’s been great working with you.” The older woman nodded, not surprised. She had seen the distance between Cassie and Frederick. “I wish you all the best, dear. But… what about your fans?” “They’re online. I can reach them from anywhere. Take care, Sara.” That night, Cassie didn’t sleep. She worked tirelessly, assembling a massive business plan. This was why she needed Sebastian. His influence in Manhattan stretched far. Finally, exhausted, she drifted off, only for her phone to ring. “Miss Munroe,” a voice snapped, “I’ve been at the café for thirty minutes. Are you coming?” Cassie shot upright, checked the time, and cursed silently. “I’m so sorry. I’ll be there in thirty minutes.” “Another thirty? You—” “I’ll compensate you,” she cut in, already rushing to get ready. Minutes later, she stepped into the garage and froze. She hadn’t called the mechanic to repair her car after the accident. Frederick’s cars were sleek, flashy, expensive, and she hated them. Only one car fit her: the least expensive of the bunch — a Mazda CX-50 Hybrid. She grabbed the keys and drove off. But life never went as planned. At a traffic light, a car slammed into her bumper, jolting her forward. The airbag stopped her from hitting the steering wheel. Dazed, Cassie unbuckled, stepped out, and when she saw who climbed out of the other car, something in her chest sank like a stone. “Oh no,” she whispered. “Not again.”