Chapter 2

When I first graduated from college and started working at the Prescott family company, my supervisor constantly bullied and berated me. James appeared like a knight in shining armor, standing up for me and defending my dignity. He promised to be my shelter, my protector, shielding me from life’s storms forever. I believed him completely and gave him my heart and soul.

When he suggested we keep our marriage secret, I agreed without hesitation. I understood his concern that a CEO’s wife from humble origins might negatively impact Prescott Industries’ stock prices. Each time I became pregnant, James would bubble with excitement like a child, exclaiming about becoming a father. Worried about my pain, he’d meticulously instruct his private doctors to use full anesthesia, never leaving my side during the procedures. I thought he cared about me and our babies.

In reality, he was just ensuring he could personally terminate each pregnancy to provide “specimens” for his beloved Rachel’s research. All this time, I blamed myself for the stillbirths, feeling guilty for disappointing him with my “weak constitution.” Looking back now, it’s laughable how blind I was.

Back at home, while James was in the shower, I scheduled an abortion procedure and bought myself a plane ticket for three days later. After his shower, toweling his hair dry, James casually mentioned, “Emily, I need to go abroad on business in three days. I’ll be busy for about a month.”

A month—exactly the time needed for a wedding and honeymoon. “James, I haven’t been feeling well lately. Could you stay with me instead? I need you here.” His brow immediately furrowed, his tone cooling. “Emily, we’ve been married for years. You should know me by now. I don’t appreciate women interfering with my work. Be a good girl and wait for me at home. I’ll bring you back something nice.”

My last hope crumbled. With a deadened heart, I nodded. “You’re right. I was being selfish. Go ahead with your trip.” James finally smiled, pushing me down onto the bed. His alcohol-laced breath lingered near my ear: “Emily, the nutritionist says you’re recovering well. How about we try for another baby tonight? I really want to watch our child grow up together.”

Hearing those words filled me with bitter irony. I pushed him away casually. “Another time. You’ve been drinking tonight—it could affect the baby’s health.” Knowing how much I cared about this, James didn’t suspect anything. He kissed my forehead and promptly fell asleep.

While he slept deeply, I picked up his jacket. I never knew James had a second phone. The lock screen wallpaper was a photo of him kissing Rachel. As I expected, the password was Rachel’s birthday.