In a marriage of convenience, Nathan, after a night of drinking, has an affair with Ava, leading to her ectopic pregnancy. Before the surgery, Ava calls Nathan, who is preoccupied with his mistress and neglects Ava, even going as far as to accuse her of having an affair and carrying another man's child after the surgery... As their one-year contractual marriage comes to an end, Nathan realizes his feelings for Ava. But Ava is not willing to play along anymore! Excerpt: "I am Nathan Ford's girlfriend, loved by him, as everyone knows. And you... you're just a title holder, soon to be thrown out. By then, you'll lose all your dignity... no, you've already lost it. I bet your deceased mother would turn in her grave if she knew what you've become." Hearing Iris Hart's sharp and biting words, Ava Sterling initially didn't want to stoop to her level. However, the mention of her late mother crossed a line. A crisp slap echoed before Iris Hart could even react, leaving five bright red marks on her face. "Ah—Ava Sterling—you lowlife, how dare you hit me..." Iris Hart realized she had been slapped and reached out to retaliate, but Ava Sterling was prepared and caught her hand easily. "Listen, Iris Hart, if I'm the joke, what does that make you? You're also a joke. At least I'm Nathan Ford's wife by law! You! Iris Hart, are nothing but a mistress scorned by everyone. Every wealthy man may stray, but a hotel is just a hotel, and home is home. There can be many dishes, but there's only one bowl of rice."
After leaving the Sterling residence, Ava felt a weight lift off her chest. "Thanks for today," she said gratefully. Without Nathan's support, dealing with Chloe would have been headache enough, let alone facing Diana, who would have undoubtedly turned the tables against her.
"It's nothing," Nathan replied, his tone distant. From the moment they left the Sterling home, Ava noticed something was off with Nathan.
"What's wrong? You seem upset. Don't tell me you actually believe Chloe's words?" Ava asked.
Nathan remained silent, and Ava rolled her eyes in frustration, deciding to ignore him. Whether he believed Chloe or not, it was his problem, not hers.
When they got home, Nathan went straight upstairs to his study without a word. Ava had wanted to thank Nathan with a meal, but his attitude left her speechless.
"Who spoiled him to be this moody!" she muttered to herself.