I don't need your help.

Zhan's Pov.

The room is bathed in soft morning light, casting a peaceful glow over our surroundings. The familiar scent of home surrounds us, reminding me of the memories we've created together. I take a deep breath, savoring the tranquility of this moment.

As I slowly open my eyes, I am greeted by Wang's eyes. They sparkle with a hint of mischief and affection, drawing me in like a magnet. His gaze is comforting, like a gentle reminder that I am loved and cherished.

In the quiet stillness of the morning, I can't help but admire the beauty of his eyes. They hold a world of stories and emotions, reflecting the depth of his soul. Each time I look into those eyes, I am reminded of the connection we share, a bond that transcends words.

Together, we have journeyed through life, facing both joys and challenges. But no matter what we encounter, I know that as long as I have his eyes guiding me, I can navigate any storm with strength and resilience.

As I take Wang's hand in mine, I am filled with gratitude for the life we have built together. Our home is more than just a physical space; it is a sanctuary where we can be ourselves, where love and understanding reside.

In these eyes, I find solace and inspiration. They are a constant reminder of the love that surrounds us, the love that makes our home truly special. With Wang by my side, I know that no matter where we are, as long as we are together, we are home.

A month after Wang proposed to me, we got married, and it has been three beautiful months since then. During this time, I have come to cherish the relationships I have formed with the people closest to me. Meng has become like the sister I never had, always there to offer support and share in my joys and sorrows. Yu Bin, on the other hand, has become like a brother, someone I can rely on and trust.

Liu, in his own way, has taken on the role of a father figure for me. He provides guidance and wisdom, offering a sense of stability and security. And then there's Jackson, who still loves to playfully tease and bring laughter to our lives.

But above all, there is Wang. Oh, Wang. He is truly the best thing that has ever happened to me. I am immensely grateful to have him as my husband and friend. Wang has shown me unconditional love, support, and understanding.

We have not heard from Wen, but Wang won't let me leave his sight; the house is still spelled, and I, on the other hand, have been experiencing pain since I turned 18, but I don't want Wang to know. He worries too much.

I groan as pain shoots through me. Wang sat up immediately, concerned by my sudden discomfort. "What's wrong?" he asked, worry etched in his voice.

"I'm fine, just a slight stomach ache," I lied, not wanting to burden him with my pain.

"Don't lie to me, Zhan," Wang seethed, his patience wearing thin. He knew when I was hiding something.

"I'm fine, really," I tried to reassure him, forcing a smile through the agony that was wracking my body. But before I could even finish my sentence, the pain struck again, intensifying with each passing second. I couldn't contain it any longer, and a scream escaped my lips, echoing through the room.

As Wang rushed to carry me on his body, his eyes were filled with fear and helplessness. He didn't know what to do, but his presence alone provided some solace amidst the torment. I clutched my stomach, feeling twisted and torn from the inside out.

The pain was relentless, pulsating through every fiber of my being. I felt weak and vulnerable, completely at the mercy of this invisible assailant. Each breath became a struggle as if my body was rejecting the very act of living.

Wang, his face etched with worry, reached out and gently placed his hand on mine, offering me a lifeline of support. The simple touch provided a fleeting moment of respite, a reminder that I wasn't alone in this battle.

Minutes felt like hours as the pain ebbed and flowed, its intensity fluctuating like waves crashing against the shore. I closed my eyes, trying to focus on something other than the agony consuming me. I wished for relief, for the pain to subside and release its grip on my body.

Finally, as suddenly as it had come, the pain began to recede. I let out a shaky breath, my body trembling with exhaustion. Wang stayed by my side, his presence a source of comfort and strength. We sat in silence, the weight of the experience lingering in the air.

And so, I groaned again, but this time it was not only the sound of pain, but everything turned black.

By the time I woke up, it was mid-afternoon. I noticed I was on the couch in the living room and everyone's faces were worried.

Meng turned to me and asked, "Zhan, are you feeling better?"

Wang's gaze shifted towards me, and though his anger was evident, he remained silent. The tense atmosphere in the room was palpable.

"How long have you been experiencing these pains?" Liu asked.

I looked away, embarrassed. "I've been having pains for a few months now," I said softly. "It started when I turned 18, and please don't blame Meng, I begged her not to tell you, I didn't want to bother you."

"Since your birthday?" Wang yelled, anger evident in his voice. "You've been having these pains for months and you didn't tell us? How could you keep something like this from us?"

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you," I said, my voice trembling. "Meng has been helping me with the pain, but I noticed it getting worse lately. I didn't want to worry you, that's why I kept it from you."

I felt Wang's arm wrap around me and leaned into him. "You will never worry me Zhan," he said, his voice tender. "We are married, nothing about you will bother me. Don't hide anything from me anymore." I smiled, knowing I could always rely on my husband.

Liu turned to Meng with concern and asked, "Meng, what is wrong with him?"

Meng sighed, feeling helpless, and replied, "I don't know, honestly. I've tried everything, but I can't figure out the cause of the pain."

Jackson, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke up. "I might know someone who could help, but you won't like it," he said, sighing.

All of us were gathered in the living room, eagerly awaiting Jackson's speech. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as we sat in hushed silence. Suddenly, the front door swung open, causing us to turn our heads in unison. The person who entered took our breath away, leaving us speechless.

In that moment, a whisper escaped my lips, "Mom." Recognition flooded my mind as I recalled her from the painting Wang had gifted me. It was a surreal experience seeing her standing before us, as if stepping out of the canvas and into reality. The emotions stirred within me, a mix of surprise, joy, and a touch of disbelief.

"Am I hallucinating?" I finally asked, my voice trembling.

"No, my love, you are not," Wang said with a gentle smile. "Your mother is here."

Liu asked, "To what do we owe this visit?" Meng's face changed as if she sensed danger, her eyes darting around the room as she took a step back.

"I'm here to help," Mom replied, her voice steady and confident. "I know you've been struggling, and I'm here to do what I can to make things better."

I don't need your help. I said coldly and distantly.

She continued, "I can help ease the pain and break the curse your father placed on you. Please, let me help you."

"I'd rather die than let you help me," I gritted my teeth, the words slipping through my clenched jaws.