Cruel words can cut to the bone, even on a sunny June day.

Elaina Reyes was heartbroken...

Since she was 15, she had been engaged to him, meant to be part of a strategic alliance. She gave him every first love and tender emotion she had. After their marriage, she did everything she could to be caring and accommodating, only to be met with harsh treatment and verbal abuse.

"I'm not going back. Let's end this... Every time you lose your temper, it's the same, and I've had enough. Grant Wheeler, just because you invested money in my family's business, does that give you the right to belittle me? Withdraw your investment if you must, but stop hurling insults. Let's go to court and get this marriage annulled."

Her voice trembled several times, feeling oppressed but holding back her tears.

Though seemingly delicate, Elaina had an inner strength, like a fragile yet resilient flower, clinging to the last shred of her dignity.

"Divorce? Fine! But first, have the baby! I'm warning you, Elaina Reyes, if you dare to harm my child, you'll regret it!"

"The prenuptial agreement didn’t mention anything about children."

"Well, I'm saying it now!"

"No."

"You wouldn't dare!"

The standoff was tense, and the atmosphere was dangerous.

Outside, the rain poured relentlessly, while inside, darkness and tension loomed, ready to explode at any moment.

This time, Elaina was resolute, her every word full of determination.

"The child is in my body, and I decide. If I don’t want it, there are ways to handle it."

"You wouldn't dare!" Grant glared at her, his anger rendering him speechless.

Called "The Prince" since childhood, he was used to everyone catering to his whims. As an adult, he had become a global tycoon, a financial mogul with the power to make or break companies with just a word. Anyone who dared oppose him faced dire consequences.

This infuriating woman was driving him mad!

The thought of grabbing her crossed his mind, but he couldn't bring himself to do it.

Yelling would only make her dig her heels in more.

"Well, Elaina Reyes, got a mind of your own now? Is it because your brother's about to be released, giving you confidence, or have you found another man to rely on? Who is it? Let me judge if he can handle your family's mess."

Elaina turned her face away dismissively; her beautiful features cold as she refused to look at him. His words were just noise now, beyond reaching her.

She was determined to stay silent, waiting for him to tire of yelling and then divorce her.

Her silence only fueled Grant’s anger more, a cold, malicious smile twisting his lips.

"You flew back this morning because you said your mom was sick, right? Such a dutiful daughter, surely you'd want your filial piety rewarded... You can relax; there should be an 'accident' soon. How about your dear mother breaks an arm or a leg? You, the devoted daughter, decide!"

Such malice! It was spine-chilling, downright monstrous!

"Grant Wheeler, don't do this! What right do you have?"

Ignoring her pleas, he called, "Damir, come in here; I've got a task for you..."

"No, Grant Wheeler! You wouldn't! You monster!"

Elaina panicked, blocking his path, and in the ensuing struggle, there was physical conflict. Grant restrained her delicate wrists, pulling her closer, instinctively shielding her abdomen with a protective arm.

Holding her close, he whispered fiercely yet tenderly in her ear, "Oh, by the way, your brother too. I bet there'll be a brawl in prison soon. He’ll slip up and get another five years added to his sentence. It'll be a long wait, haha..."

Oh heavens!

Let it all end!

Complete despair!

Outside the hospital room, Damir heard the fierce arguments and the young lady's cries turning into desperate pleas.

However!

When he opened the door, what he saw was a dramatic reversal.

The young lady was kneeling on the floor, softly apologizing, "I'm sorry, I won't do it again. I'll listen to you from now on, Grant. Please forgive me just this once?"

Damir quickly looked away, not daring to observe further.

"Uh... sir, you called for me?"

Grant raised an eyebrow, exuding an air of smug arrogance, his anger dissipated.

There's an old saying: to err is human, to forgive, divine.

Alright then,

He considered himself quite "magnanimous"; she was his wife, after all. If she made a mistake, he'd teach her a lesson, but if she corrected it, he'd pardon her.

After all, he considered himself someone who could "embrace all streams, encompassing tolerance and greatness."

His mood improved, and with a cheerful wave, he declared, "Never mind, get the car ready; we're going home!"

Elaina Reyes felt if there ever came a time she died, it would be out of sheer frustration.

Before she hit twenty, Elaina was the happiest princess around. Spoiled by her parents and adored by her brother, she floated through life untouched by hardship, like a fairy in a world of her own. She excelled in both academics and the arts, always coming out on top, never facing criticism or scorn.

But after she turned twenty, her world turned upside down. Her father passed away, her brother ended up in prison, and their family lost their status. Yet, her 'good fortune' seemed intact; her fiancé was rich enough to pump $17 billion into the Reyes Corporation, salvaging it and ensuring its survival.

Their wedding was extravagant, the epitome of luxury, plastered across major headlines and celebrated like a fairy tale. Elaina moved far away to a new country, living in a lavish manor with vast grounds and a team of servants—everything anyone could dream of.

But what was her life really like?

In public, she appeared to lead a glamorous life, but behind closed doors, it was a different story—one filled with humiliation and helplessness.

She had signed a prenuptial agreement with Grant Wheeler. His role was to ensure the Reyes Corporation was financially stable, and he delivered on that promise. For her, his only requirement boiled down to four words: "Keep me happy." It sounded simple but turned out to be the hardest rule. There was no reasoning, no negotiation; his word was law. If he was unhappy, it was always deemed Elaina's fault.

Grant was arrogant, domineering, and quick-tempered, leaving much to be desired in his behavior. Elaina dared not confront him and played the part of the most submissive wife possible. If she saw other women flirting with her husband, she quickly averted her eyes, pretending not to notice. When other women approached him, she would find a reason to leave, giving them space.

However, her mother-in-law, Linda Spencer, was not pleased. She harshly criticized Elaina, calling her an "ineffective wife," little more than a decorative vase despite the fortune spent on the wedding. From then on, whenever rumors about Grant's affairs surfaced, Elaina inevitably bore the brunt of Linda's anger. Her father-in-law, Alistair Wheeler, wasn’t any better; he had never approved of bringing this 'fallen princess' into the family, begrudgingly picking up the pieces for the Reyes clan.

Elaina's days were hard to endure, treading lightly as the perpetual scapegoat. If the stock market faltered, it was the Reyes family’s fault, and she had to take the blame. If Grant had a headache or caught a cold, it was because she hadn't cared for him properly, and she had to take the blame. If Grant was out enjoying himself and didn’t come home, it was again her fault, and she had to take the blame.

Every time, Elaina would apologize, "Yes, it’s my fault. I’ll be more careful. I’m sorry, Mom. Please don’t be upset..."

Two years into the marriage, did she hate it? No, it wasn’t hate. Her feelings towards the Wheeler family were complicated. It wasn’t hate but gratitude. Despite their harshness, they were indeed her benefactors. At her family's lowest, most desperate point, it was Grant who extended a helping hand, investing $17 billion and stabilizing the Reyes Corporation.

Linda Spencer had been a kind of 'mentor'; she took a liking to Elaina when she was just fifteen and decided she would be her future daughter-in-law. When the Reyes family fell, Linda supported bringing Elaina into their family. This kindness in their darkest time was a debt of gratitude Elaina would never forget.

She was intimidated by the Wheeler family and yearned to escape, yet she also maintained her respect and gratitude towards them.

At fifteen, Elaina Reyes first met Grant Wheeler at a family gathering...

The Reyes family was well-known, a venerable business dynasty with a sterling reputation through generations. Mention their three children, and everyone would nod in admiration.

Unlike other privileged heirs who wasted their wealth, the Reyes children were all extraordinary. Elaina had two brothers: an older half-brother and a twin brother. All three were shining examples of virtue and excellence, both in character and achievement, leaving no room for criticism.

At that time, the Reyes family was at its peak, a prominent force in Seattle’s business circles.

Spring had arrived with its pleasant breezes and blossoming landscapes—ideal for outdoor gatherings. It was Natalia Meyer’s birthday, and she hosted a morning brunch. From 9 a.m. onwards, guests steadily arrived.

To everyone’s surprise, an especially distinguished guest appeared—the lady of the renowned Wheeler family. The Wheelers were in a league of their own among elite circles. As global business magnates based in Geneva, they dominated industries from entertainment to electronics, controlling significant economic chains.

Linda Spencer, the Wheeler matriarch, was a formidable figure, unlike the usual society women, and rarely attended social gatherings. Furthermore, Linda wasn’t fluent in English and usually couldn’t keep up with conversations with these American ladies. Today was an exception. The weather was beautiful, and Linda, accompanied by another businessman's wife who helped with translations, joined the gathering.

Natalia warmly welcomed Linda, guiding her to a prime seat. They exchanged polite greetings, though Linda mostly conversed with the Swiss translator by her side, maintaining a gentle smile.

In the semi-open hall, one could enjoy the vibrant outdoor scenery from every angle—the lush grass and chirping birds painting a picture of springtime beauty. From a distant pavilion, the melodious sound of a piano could be heard.

The Swiss woman glanced over and introduced, "The one playing the piano is the Reyes' daughter—only fifteen."

"Fifteen?" Linda’s eyes lingered, taking a closer look.

From afar, she could see just Elaina's profile—a graceful and poised image. Her hair was loosely tied back, showcasing a lovely jawline and swan-like neck, with a straight posture and an air of elegant composure. Listening to her play and observing her demeanor, it was hard to believe this was a fifteen-year-old girl.

Meanwhile, three children around six or seven were playing energetically on the lawn with toy water guns. Swept up in their play, they didn’t notice Elaina nearby and accidentally sprayed her with water, drenching her from head to shoulder and splashing the piano.

Startled by the unexpected splash, Elaina was taken aback.

A nanny hurried over, apologizing profusely, "I'm so sorry, Miss. It was my fault. I’m really sorry!"

Elaina gently reassured her it was alright as she took a napkin to dry her face and wiped the water off the piano. Kind-hearted by nature, she didn’t get upset, even though she was soaked. Smiling, she spoke with the children, asking if they were hungry, and led them to wash their hands and have cake, leaving the little guests in high spirits.

Elaina returned to her room upstairs to change into a fresh outfit. Coming back down, she brought a platter of fruit to share with the guests.

This time, at close proximity, Linda took a good look at her.

Beautiful, truly beautiful! From afar, she had an elegant grace; up close, she was charming and delicate.

Elaina stood tall for her age, already reaching 5'5". Her features retained a youthful innocence, with a slightly round face and the hint of youthful softness, suggesting a budding beauty.

Without makeup, her natural beauty shone through, pure and unadorned. Naturally reserved, Elaina greeted the guests politely before quietly stepping out.

The ladies continued to chat, endlessly praising her. It wasn’t flattery—Elaina was genuinely outstanding! Among her peers, she was unmatched.

She excelled in arts and academics, fluent in multiple languages, skilled in singing and dancing, and proficient in various musical instruments. Particularly impressive was her piano skill—she mastered it by nine and by fourteen, had won first prize in an international youth competition. The prestigious Curtis Institute of Music extended her a special invitation.

Yet, Elaina chose not to attend, preferring to stay close to her family in Seattle. The Reyes family cherished their precious daughter too much to send her so far away to the U.S.

It was the epitome of indulgence, wasn’t it? Raising a daughter for happiness, not expecting her to battle for accolades or earn an income, just enjoying music for its sheer joy—why send her so far?

Elaina was exceptional, not just in looks and talent, but her temperament was incredibly kind and dutiful. She always cared deeply for her grandparents and parents, a warm-hearted angel to everyone...

The Swiss woman spoke enthusiastically, clearly well-informed because her daughter was Elaina’s classmate. Comparing her "angelic daughter" to her own "rebellious daughter," she expressed envy and admiration with a touch of humor.

Linda listened patiently, nodding in agreement throughout. The more she listened, the more an idea took root in her mind...

The day was slightly overcast, and the sun wasn’t too harsh. Elaina carried a plate of pastries across the lawn to the shade under the trees.

“Grandpa, time for some treats,” she called lovingly.

An elderly man with silver hair sat in a wheelchair, his gaze wandering. He suffered from Alzheimer’s and had recently become quite confused, often unable to recognize people. Elaina gently fed him with a spoon, coaxing, “Just a taste, have a little. One bite, just one…”

“Not good!”

“Yes, no sugar, remember? Because of your blood sugar… one more bite. It’s your daughter’s birthday today, and she’s busy with guests.”

“Don’t want it.”

“Grandpa, want to hear about Arthurian legends? Finish this slice, and I’ll read to you. The tales of King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, how thrilling! And there’s the battle of Camelot, the adventures of Sir Lancelot, and Merlin's magic…”

Caring for the elderly wasn’t easy, but with gentle persuasion and little tricks, she eventually managed to feed him all the pastries.

Under the shade, the leaves swayed, casting a delicate pattern of light and shadow on the ground.

Elaina nestled beside the wheelchair, her pale summer dress cascading onto the lawn, pure and immaculate, like a water lily kissed by morning dew. She held a copy of "Arthurian Legends," reading quietly to her grandfather, unaware someone had been watching her for a while.

* * *

Choosing a daughter-in-law for the Wheeler family was a discerning task, known for its high standards. Yet, after just one meeting, Linda Spencer was taken with Elaina Reyes.

In the Wheeler family, the three key figures—Mr. Wheeler, Linda, and Grant—shared a strong, demanding nature and an infamous temper. Therefore, in selecting a daughter-in-law, Linda rejected anyone similar—overbearing, spoiled, temperamental, or troublesome... No! No, no, no!

She hoped for a gentle daughter-in-law who wouldn’t argue with her son. Someone beautiful, pure, understanding, cultured, kind, considerate, and capable of caring for others…

All these qualities Linda wished for seemed perfectly embodied in Elaina upon meeting her. It was fate!