Chapter 1

She said she was scared. She didn't want to go to jail and asked if I could take her place.

She promised to wait for me and build a good life together when I got out.

But six years later, when I finally walked free, she didn't come.

Instead, she sent her assistant with divorce papers.

She said she was a CEO, and having a convict for a husband was a stain on her reputation.

At her career's peak, there was no room for any negative news.

But not long after I signed the papers, she regretted it.

"I'm sorry, but this is as far as we go."

…

"Make the best of your life out there. Don't come back."

The warden patted Kyle Archer on the shoulder before turning to close the prison gates.

Kyle squinted as the blinding sunlight made it hard for him to open his eyes fully. "Six years… Finally, I'm out," he muttered.

A loud rumble of an engine broke the silence. A sleek Rolls-Royce roared up and stopped right in front of him.

Moments later, the back window rolled down, revealing a sharp, cold face behind black-rimmed glasses.

"Mr. Archer, please get in," the woman said firmly.

Kyle's lips curled into a wry smile when he recognized her.

"Chloe, six years apart, and you've only gotten prettier. Riding in a Rolls-Royce now, huh? I still remember when I suggested you work as Belle's secretary—you were just a junior employee back then."

Chloe Carter's expression turned frosty at his words.

"Where's Belle? Didn't she come to pick me up?" he asked, noticing that Chloe was the only one in the car.

Chloe lifted her hand slightly, tossing a neatly packed set of clothes toward him.

"Ms. Cotton has an important meeting today, so she sent me instead. Change into these clothes before you get in. That uniform you're wearing is bad luck—start fresh, and turn over a new leaf."

Though there was no one else around, it was clear she expected Kyle to change right there on the street.

Kyle narrowed his eyes, sensing her indifference. Still, eager to see Belle Cotton, he said nothing. He stripped off the prison-issued garb, revealing a torso crisscrossed with scars—each one a painful reminder of the past six years.

Once inside the car, Kyle stared out the window, taking in the sweeping changes to Kerdonia over the years.

"Six years… Belle must be doing well, right?" he asked.

"Life Pharma is Kerdonia's largest pharmaceutical company and one of its top three enterprises," Chloe replied in a tone brimming with pride.

"Is that so? That's great to hear. I always knew my Belle had what it takes. It's almost noon—drop me at the market first. I'll make her favorite glazed barbecued pork ribs."

Before he could finish, Chloe interrupted. "Ms. Cotton instructed me to take you to the Imperial Hotel for a bath first."

With that, she turned her head away, signaling an end to the conversation.

…

The Rolls-Royce soon pulled up in front of the Imperial Hotel. Chloe led Kyle to the presidential suite, where eight sharply dressed men and women were waiting inside.

As soon as she entered, they stood and greeted her. "Ms. Carter!"

Kyle's heart sank. Something about the scene didn't sit right, but he told them to wait while he cleaned up. It was only polite to discuss matters when he was freshened up.

Half an hour later, Kyle stepped out, now clean and dressed. His towering 6'1" frame, muscular build, and ruggedly handsome face left everyone momentarily stunned.

No wonder he could win the title of Ms. Cotton's husband.

Even Chloe, caught off guard, hesitated before recovering with a businesslike smile. "Mr. Archer, please have a seat. This is our company's legal team."

Kyle Archer had co-founded Life Pharma with Belle Cotton. In terms of cunning and strategy, he far outclassed her. The current setup left little doubt in his mind about what was coming.

Calmly, he took the lead seat and smiled. "No need to beat around the bush. Just say what you need to say."

Chloe pushed a document across the table. "Mr. Archer, this is your divorce agreement with Ms. Cotton. It included a 1,500-square-foot fully furnished home transferred to your name and an additional one million dollars in cash.

"If you sigh, everything listed will be yours. If you have other requests, feel free to discuss them with us. These eight are senior attorneys who can assist with…"

Their voices faded into the background as Kyle quietly lifted the divorce papers, a bitter smile forming on his lips.

"This doesn't feel much like a discussion," he said dryly.

In a second-tier city like Kerdonia, a house and a million dollars were a generous offer, especially for someone fresh out of prison.

Chloe cleared her throat, her tone tinged with arrogance. "To be honest, Mr. Archer, there's no need to negotiate. You have a six-year prison record. Do you think you can still stand by a renowned CEO's side?

"Six years is long enough for any feelings to fade. Leaving things amicably is your best option."

The word "stain" was like a dagger to Kyle's heart.

He didn't lose his temper. Instead, he set the papers down and said calmly, "If I hadn't taken the fall for her, she would've been the one in jail.

"Divorce? Ha, what a generous offer indeed."

Chloe sighed. "Mr. Archer, digging up the past is meaningless. The fact remains—you have a criminal record. Think about it: how do people fresh out of prison usually live? Not everyone is lucky enough to have an ex-wife like Ms. Cotton, willing to provide a house and financial security.

"Drag this out any longer, and you'll only make things harder on yourself."

Chloe's sharp words and exceptional negotiation skills were a testament to why she had become one of Belle's most trusted aides.

Back then, it was precisely these qualities that led Kyle to recommend her as Belle's secretary.

Kyle turned and lit a cigarette. "Belle wants a divorce, fine. But she needs to come in person.

"Sending her subordinate to talk divorce terms and offer money? Heh, she should know better than anyone that's not how you deal with me."

As soon as Kyle finished speaking, the heavy door creaked open.

Everyone except Kyle immediately stood up.

"Ms. Cotton!"

"Leave us," Belle commanded.

The group hurriedly filed out, leaving only Chloe behind.

Kyle had already guessed that Belle was here all along, simply avoiding him for her own reasons.

The six years had completely transformed her. Gone was the youthful woman he remembered. She now wore a sleek black evening gown, paired with understated makeup. The pearl necklace around her neck and emerald bracelet radiated sophistication.

But to Kyle, she looked like a stranger.

The Belle he knew used to smile sweetly. Her words and actions had always been warm and full of life. Now, there was only cold indifference and pride.

"I'm here. Sign the papers, Kyle. Six years ago, you chose to take all the responsibility. I never forced you," Bella said, sitting down without even glancing at him.

Of all the words Kyle had imagined Belle might say when he got out, this was not one of them.

"Belle, if I hadn't taken the fall for you, you would've been the one behind bars!" he shot back, his voice cold. "I served six years for you, and now I embarrass you?"

Belle didn't turn to look at him. She only shook her head. "What I hate most about you is this indecisiveness and self-righteousness.

"Open your eyes, Kyle. I'm Belle Cotton, chairman of Life Pharma. I built this company from the ground while you were inside. During my most vulnerable moments, you weren't there. You couldn't do anything for me."

Her words struck Kyle like a bolt of lightning.

He had sacrificed everything—his freedom, his reputation—to shield Belle. Six years of his life, gone. And this was what he got in return? Abandonment.

"Do you know how humiliating it's been when people ask who my husband is? My company is about to go public. I can't, and won't, allow any blemishes on its record. To the world, you're just an ex-convict. Do you need me to say it more bluntly?"

It was then that Kyle finally understood.

He tilted his head back and let out a bitter laugh—one full of pain and resignation.

"Five million," Belle said firmly. "I'll give you five million dollars, Kyle. Everything has changed. You've been gone too long. You're out of touch with the world. Let's just say I owe you this much. Sign the papers."

Every word she spoke carried the confidence of someone in power.

"In your eyes, everything I did for you is worth just five million, isn't it?" Kyle stood, his voice icy. "Belle, now that you're a high-and-mighty CEO, I don't deserve to stand by your side anymore, right?"

Belle didn't get angry. Instead, she sighed and shook her head.

"Kyle, you're still as immature as ever. There's no need to mock me or drag this out. You don't have to sign if you don't want to. I'll have the lawyers handle it.

"This… is where we end," she said, turning to leave.

"This is where we end?" Kyle's eyes darkened.

"Yes," Belle snapped, turning back to face him. "The incompetent only drag down the successful."

Incompetent?

Kyle let out a hollow laugh. Life Pharma wouldn't be where it was today without him. Belle had enjoyed all the benefits of his sacrifices, yet she had the audacity to call him useless.

Without another word, Kyle picked up the pen and signed the divorce papers.

"I don't know the house or the money. You're free now." he said calmly. "Before I leave, I'll swing by the house we used to live in to grab my things. The morning after tomorrow, we'll meet at the courthouse."

As he signed, Belle's body trembled ever so slightly, though she quickly bit her lip to suppress it.

"Fine," she said, handing the papers to Chloe. Her expression remained as cold and detached as ever.

Kyle walked to the door and stopped. Feeling the weight of Belle's heartlessness, he spoke softly, without turning around.

"If I told you, all I ever wanted was a simple life… Would you believe me?"

Chapter 2

"Chloe, was I… too cruel?" Belle asked softly.

Chloe shook her head. "He's an ex-convict, someone with a stain on his record. You've already compensated him more than generously. Most people wouldn't have your kind heart."

"Don't overthink this, Ms. Cotton. If there's anyone to blame, it's him for being too mediocre. He's not worth your time or energy, and now you're divorced. It's time to move on."

Hearing Chloe's words, Belle felt a bit better.

"When I first started the company, I was walking on thin ice. It wasn't easy to get to where I am now with so many people supporting me. If they found out I had a husband who'd been in prison, it would've been disastrous—for both me and the company.

"He really is a good person, but I didn't have a choice. You're right—I've given him all the compensation he deserves. I don't owe him anything."

Belle seemed to be convincing herself as she spoke. Her face no longer showed hesitation or sadness.

But if Kyle knew how easily Belle could rationalize everything, what expression would he wear?

He had gone to prison willingly to protect Belle, taking all the blame on himself.

Now, he was branded as mediocre and tainted.

Even in prison, Kyle had arranged for people to protect Belle.

Yet now, that sacrifice had become the very reason for Belle's aloofness and superiority.

How ironic.

Just then, Belle's younger brother, Matthew Cotton, called.

"Hey, Belle, what are you doing? I heard you divorced that ex-convict. Is he pestering you? Trying to take your money? Don't worry—I'll teach him a lesson right now."

"Matthew, Kyle already signed the papers. I know you've been hanging around with Mike Clements from the Rivas family, but don't do anything reckless. Don't cause trouble for me. Do you hear me?"

Belle's tone was stern. She knew Matthew's temperament all too well. If she didn't stop him, he might stir up a lot of unnecessary trouble.

Hearing that Kyle had already signed the papers, Matthew's eyes lit up. But then his mood soured.

"Wait, no way. That guy wouldn't just give in like that. Belle, did you give him a ton of money? A few million?"

"What? A few million? Hand me the phone!"

Matthew's words caught the attention of their mother, Margaret Monroe, who immediately grabbed the phone and started ranting.

"Belle, have you lost your mind? How could you give even a single cent to an ex-convict? He's blackmailing you, can't you see that? Our family is respectable—we can't be associated with someone like him! Don't you dare give him anything!"

"Mom, please let me finish!" Matthew said.

"Belle, let me make myself clear—I don't care how much money we're talking about, it's not happening. I'm your brother, and I've never seen even a fraction of that from you. Our family's money stays in the family—it's not going to end up in the pocket of some loser.

"I know what I'm doing, so don't worry about it. I'll make sure every penny comes back to me."

Matthew hung up the phone abruptly, leaving Belle anxious.

"Matthew! Don't do anything stupid. Hello? Hello?"

"Chloe, go find Matthew," Belle said, her worry evident. "Things are tense right now, and I don't want him stirring up any trouble."

Despite her sharp tone, Belle's indulgence toward Matthew was boundless.

Even knowing that Matthew intended to target Kyle, Belle only asked Chloe to talk him down.

It was as if keeping Matthew happy mattered far more than Kyle's safety.

"Matt, think about this! That's our family's money—you can't let it go to that ex-convict. Belle is too soft-hearted to see through these street-smart types. If he takes this money today, he'll come back for more tomorrow. He's counting on Belle's kindness. This can't happen. Don't give him a single cent!"

"Don't worry, Mom. I'm not the same as before. However he got that money, I'll make him cough it up. And if he doesn't… He'll regret it," Matthew said, reassuring Margaret while gathering his crew.

"Just be careful. Kyle had money back then, and who knows what kind of shady connections he might've made during all those years in prison?"

"Shady connections? I hope he has connections. I want him to see who's really in charge around here."

It didn't take long for Matthew to gather dozens of reckless teens.

The leader, his hair dyed a garish green, grinned. "Mr. Cotton, everyone's here. Are we heading out now to deal with your brother-in-law?"

"Brother-in-law? What nonsense. Does that fool even deserve to be called my brother-in-law? He's just an idiot. Let's go! Bring the gear, and let's teach that scumbag a lesson!"

Matthew lit a premium cigarette, took a drag, and tossed the pack to his lackeys.

"Watch for my signal. When I say attack, you hit him hard—no holding back. If anything happens, I'll take full responsibility!

"When it's done, the drinks and entertainment are on me tonight."

"Got it!" The green-haired youth cheered excitedly. "Let's hurry up and get it done!"

They all knew what kind of clout Matthew wielded these days.

What they didn't know was that this same Matthew had once been a humble kid wearing patched-up clothes.

Meanwhile, Kyle stood in the home he and Belle had once shared.

The living room was empty now, but echoes of their laughter and joy still lingered in his ears.

It wasn't a big place—just a little over one thousand square feet. For many, it might seem small. But for Kyle and Belle, it had been a home filled with happiness.

The furniture was covered with white sheets, a clear sign that Belle hadn't been back in a long time.

Kyle understood. After all, she was now the CEO of one of Kerdonia's top three companies. How could someone like her lower herself to live in such a humble place?

Especially one filled with memories of an ex-convict.

He lit a cigarette, took a deep breath, and exhaled, his expression bitter and resigned.

For love, Kyle had sacrificed his future, his dignity, and even taken the fall for Belle.

Even in prison, his abilities had earned him the respect of powerful figures, and he had leveraged those connections to help Belle.

He had paved the way for her dreams, ensuring she had unwavering support.

Now, Belle stood at the top, the foremost female CEO in Kerdonia.

And yet…

Kyle had become the only blemish on her otherwise perfect life.

Was this reality?

Kyle clenched his fists slightly.

"Belle, you'll realize everything you have now is because of me. You'll understand that your success is built on my sacrifices.

"Just wait. I'm curious to see your expression when the truth finally comes out."

Suddenly, Kyle's phone rang.

He frowned at the unfamiliar number. Few people even knew he was out of prison.

"Hello?"

"Is this Dr. Archer?" The woman's voice was sweet but trembled with emotion, as if she were holding back tears.

"No, you've got the wrong number." Kyle hung up immediately.

At Solace Manor in Kerdonia, Elisa Rivas, the underground empress with power spanning both legal and illegal realms, was pacing with red-rimmed eyes.

Despite her vast influence, Elisa, now 35, was helpless in the face of her father's illness.

"Mike, are you sure this is the right number?" she asked, her voice tense.

The middle-aged man, Mike, nodded respectfully. "I pulled every string I had to get this number from Mr. Marshall. He emphasized that today is the only time you can call—no other day. There's no mistake.

"Mr. Marshall also said Dr. Archer has been living incognito for the past decade, likely for personal reasons. We'll need to try again and hope for the best."

Elisa nodded bitterly. "I don't know how much longer my father can hold on."

After a moment, she straightened her posture.

"No. I must convince Dr. Archer to help. Over the years, I've consulted countless renowned doctors, even Mr. Marshall, and none could do anything. Dr. Archer is our last hope.

"If he agrees to help, I'll pay any price."

Determined, Elisa redialed the number.

This time, her tone was even more pleading.

"Dr. Archer, please, hear me out. I got this number from Rupert Marshall. I'm begging you—please save my father. Whatever conditions you have, I'll agree to them."

"Rupert Marshall? That old man must be over a hundred by now. Still trying to cash in favors with me at his age?"

His tone was calm. "Out of respect for him, I'll help you with this once. But I can't guarantee success."

Hearing his words, Elisa's body trembled with excitement.

"Thank you, thank you! As long as you're willing to come, that's all that matters. Dr. Archer, where are you? I'll come pick you up right now…"

"Come the afternoon after tomorrow."

Before Kyle could end the call, he heard a furious pounding on his door.

"Open up, Kyle Archer! I know you're in there! If you don't open the door, I'll kill you!"

Chapter 3

The pounding on the door was so loud that Elisa could hear it clearly through the phone.

"Dr. Archer, are you in trouble? Let me come over and handle it for you."

"No need," Kyle replied flatly before hanging up.

Hearing the busy tone on the other end, Elisa's anger flared.

She had worked so hard to convince Dr. Archer to save her father, and now someone dared to cause trouble at such a critical moment.

"Find out who it is!" Elisa ordered, her voice cold and commanding. "Who dares provoke Dr. Archer? I want them gone—for good!"

…

Outside the door, the voice of Matthew, familiar yet foreign, rang out.

Back in the day, Matthew had always clung to Kyle like a shadow. It had been six years since they last met, and hearing his voice again stirred a mix of emotions.

Kyle opened the door with a faint smile. "Matt, you're here. Six years apart, and you've put on some weight, huh?"

Matthew shoved Kyle aside and stormed into the room without hesitation.

The small space quickly filled as Matthew's followers poured in after him, crowding the apartment.

Matthew sneered. "Looks like you've been doing all right. Six years, and they couldn't beat you to death in there?

"Cut the fake friendly act. Do you think I don't know who you are? You're not my brother-in-law anymore!"

Kyle's gaze darkened. "Matt, yes, Belle and I got divorced, but that's between us. You weren't like this before. Who taught you to behave like this?"

Kyle's words seemed to strike a nerve. Matthew's face twisted in anger.

"Kyle Archer, shut up! Don't you dare talk about the past! There is no past! If you bring it up again, I'll kill you!

"Don't act like you know me! You have no idea how ruthless I've become. I'm not the same Matthew Cotton I used to be. If you try to spread rumors about me, I'll make your life a living hell!"

The truth was, Matthew's past haunted him. He had been bullied relentlessly in his youth, mocked for his poverty, and left feeling worthless.

Back then, it had always been Kyle who stood up for him, shielding him from the torment. But now, as if to erase those memories, Matthew had transformed into someone he once feared—a bully himself.

People, once they struck it rich, often forgot their roots, eager to prove to others how much they'd grown. Matthew just took it to an extreme.

"Matthew, have you forgotten what I taught you when you were younger? Is this how I raised you to talk to people? Look at yourself, barging in here with all these people. What's your goal? To scare me?

"You ignore the good lessons and pick up nothing but trouble. In the years I've been gone, you've become completely reckless. Yes, I divorced your sister, but that's no excuse for you to yell at me. I'm just here to get my things. Once I'm done, I'll leave. Goodbye."

Kyle's disappointment was evident. He had once cared for Matthew, teaching him with patience and treating him like family. But seeing what he had become, Kyle felt it unnecessary to keep up any pretense of politeness.

"Your things? Ha! There's nothing here that belongs to you. If you're smart, you'll leave right now, " Matthew snapped, his arrogance on full display.

Kyle looked at him, eyes filled with disappointment. "Matt, I've told you before—people who think too highly of themselves usually don't end up well.

"Control your temper. I'll pack up and be out of here soon. I won't take long."

Because of his affection for Belle, Kyle had always doted on Matthew as well, treating him with patience and careful guidance.

But seeing What Matthew had become now, Kyle couldn't help but feel disappointed. For the boy who used to follow him around, calling him "brother-in-law" every other sentence, Kyle's tolerance today was the greatest kindness he could offer.

Matthew, however, turned red with anger, alternating between humiliation and rage as he realized Kyle wasn't taking him seriously at all.

Here he was, the younger brother of Belle Cotton, CEO of a top company, and the protégé of Mike Clements, a powerful figure in Kerdonia’s underworld. Who in this city dared to disrespect him?

"Kyle Archer, you're nothing but an ex-convict! How dare you act like you can lecture me?" Matthew spat.

"Did those years in prison turn you into a fool? Do you even realize who I am now? My status is something you could never achieve in your lifetime. One call from me, and you're dead—do you believe that?"

Pointing a finger at Kyle's face, Matthew seethed with fury.

Kyle narrowed his eyes slightly and calmly raised his hand, grabbing Matthew's outstretched finger.

"You… What are you—"

Before Matthew could finish, Kyle gave his finger a quick twist.

It wasn't much force, but the pain was enough to make Matthew scream in agony.

"Aah!"

In an instant, Matthew's arrogance vanished. He hunched over, his face contorted in pain.

"Let go! Let go of me!"

The sudden turn of events left Matthew's crew stunned.

"Let him go, or I'll break your legs!" one of them threatened nervously.

"Yeah, let go of him, or you're dead!"

"Release him now!"

Despite their loud threats, none of them dared to step forward.

Matthew, half-kneeling on the ground and writhing in pain, roared at his crew, "What are you waiting for? Beat him! Kill him!"

The teens exchanged uneasy glances, clearly hesitant. They were used to bullying weaker people, but facing someone as formidable as Kyle, they didn't dare make a move.

"What are you standing around for? Beat this bastard to death!" Matthew shouted again, his voice desperate.

At his command, they reluctantly charged at Kyle.

Kyle, already simmering with pent-up anger, found this a perfect outlet.

Still gripping Matthew's finger, Kyle dodged the first punch effortlessly with a tilt of his head and countered with a quick jab.

With a crack, the attacker's nose broke instantly. The teen collapsed to the floor, clutching his face and wailing.

Another boy with dyed yellow hair tried to kick Kyle, but Kyle simply turned and delivered a powerful counter-kick.

The boy flew backward, landing on his knees. He clutched his stomach, unable to utter a word through the pain.

Kyle's strength and speed made it clear—no matter how many of these teens came at him, they were no match.

Watching this, Matthew was utterly dumbfounded.

He had never seen Kyle fight before. He had always assumed Kyle was just a pushover—a meek man who wouldn't even raise his voice.

But now, the man before seemed like a completely different person.

Was this the same Kyle Archer who used to wear an apron and tirelessly try to make Belle happy?

The Kyle Archer standing before him now was more like a ruthless, fearsome outlaw.

"Kyle… Did you… Are you a different person?" Matthew stammered, still in shock.

Kyle let out a laugh. "What, do you think this is a movie?

"But you're not entirely wrong. I have been reborn."

Betrayed so coldly by Belle, Kyle had made up his mind to change—to force everyone to see him in a new light.

With that, Kyle raised his hand and slapped Matthew hard across the face.

"This slap is to teach you what respect means," Kyle said coldly.

Matthew's cheek burned, and his molars felt looser. Staring at Kyle's menacing expression, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of fear.

But as the humiliation sank in, Matthew grew even angrier. The thought that he was scared of Kyle—an ex-convict—was unbearable.

"Kyle Archer, how dare you hit me? Fine! Just you wait—I'll kill you for this!"

Even now, Matthew dared to talk back.

Kyle's voice turned icy. "Belle spoiled you too much, shielding you from the real world. She never let you face the consequences of your actions.

"But today, I'll teach you what it means to be a man."

Chapter 4

Kyle grabbed Matthew by the collar and slapped him again.

"This slap is to teach you what gratitude means!"

In the past, whenever Matthew got himself into trouble and was too scared to tell Belle or Margaret, he would always beg Kyle to clean up his mess.

Before Matthew could recover, Kyle slapped him again.

"This slap is to teach you not to be so arrogant. In front of others, you're still just a kid."

After three consecutive slaps, Matthew was dazed.

His face was swollen like a balloon, with patches of redness and bruising making him look even worse. A few broken teeth fell out of his mouth, leaving him in an utterly miserable state.

Just then, hurried footsteps approached.

"Stop! Kyle Archer, do you know what you're doing?"

The voice belonged to Chloe, Belle's closest friend and assistant.

Kyle tilted his head slightly, glancing at her with cold amusement.

"You're a bit late; you missed the good part."

"Good part? Do you have any idea who you just hit? Matthew is Ms. Cotton's most beloved brother! You heartless, ungrateful man! How dare you betray Ms. Cotton's kindness?"

The words "heartless" and "ungrateful" instantly turned Kyle's gaze icy.

"Heartless? Ungrateful? Coming from you now—now that's ironic."

"Ms. Cotton was worried about you earlier. She was afraid Matthew might act recklessly, so she sent me here to intervene. And this is how you repay her kindness?"

In truth, Chloe had arrived earlier but stayed hidden, hoping Matthew would teach Kyle a lesson.

She thought it might help Kyle realize the gap between himself and the Cotton family.

But she hadn't expected things to escalate like this.

"Oh? So, you're all just overflowing with good intentions, huh?"

Kyle released Matthew, who collapsed to the floor like a heap of trash.

Chloe rushed over, cradling Matthew in her arms. "Matthew! Are you okay? Say something! Don't scare me!"

Seeing that Matthew couldn't even speak, Chloe shouted at the yellow-haired boy nearby, "Call an ambulance! Now!"

The boy, shaken to his core, fumbled for his phone and nervously dialed.

"Kyle Archer, you've gone mad! Do you realize what you've done? You've beaten Matthew like this—Ms. Cotton will never show you an ounce of sympathy again. Think about how you're going to explain this to her!

"Ms. Cotton gave you compensation out of respect for your past relationship. You pretended to be magnanimous by refusing it, and now you turn around and do this to her brother?"

Kyle chuckled at her words, tilting his head as if mocking her.

"Do I look like an idiot to you? Your whole purpose for being here was to watch me embarrass myself and then go back to tell Belle how I've realized the so-called 'gap' between us, wasn't it?"

Kyle was well aware of these tactics.

Kyle's voice grew colder. "I just got out of prison, and you people couldn't wait to threaten me into a divorce. I said I didn't want anything—just what's mine. That's it. And you still had to intervene?"

Chloe felt a shiver run down her spine as she looked into Kyle's eyes.

Was this the same Kyle Archer she once knew?

Kyle walked over, grabbed Matthew by the hair, and spoke in a chilling tone.

"Today, it's not about you refusing to let me go—it's about me refusing to let you go."

Chloe was stunned. In her memory, Kyle had always been mild-mannered, a man who avoided conflict.

But now, after six years in prison, he had become ruthless and domineering. It wasn't enough for him to beat someone—he had to humiliate Matthew further.

"Kyle Archer, you're insane! You've completely lost it!" Chloe shouted in desperation, her anger flaring as she saw the severity of Matthew's injuries.

Kyle remained indifferent. "I divorced Belle, but I'm not naive enough to believe you had no part in it. Don't even try to convince me otherwise.

"I don't hit women, but that doesn't mean I won't if I have to. If you don't want to test me, stay out of my way. Don't push me."

Hearing this, Chloe's face darkened with visible anger.

Not only had Kyle beaten Matthew to a pulp, but now he was threatening her.

"Fine, Kyle. You want to hit me? Go ahead! Do it! Let's see if you even qualify as a man!" Chloe spat through gritted teeth.

"You divorced Belle. Now, you take all your anger out on her brother. Does that make you feel good? Have you thought about the consequences? The Cotton family can end you whenever they want!"

"Oh? The mighty Cotton family, huh? Do they rely on Belle's wealth and power, or her cold-heartedness and lack of loyalty?"

Kyle sighed mockingly. "This ungrateful, self-serving family wants to challenge me? Fine. But if you insist on provoking me, be ready to face the consequences.

"Matthew can leave now. But Belle must come here and apologize to me in person. If she doesn't, he won't be leaving this place—not even for his funeral."

In Kerdonia, the name of the Cotton family was enough to intimidate most ordinary people.

But thinking they could scare Kyle just by throwing around the Cotton name? What a joke.

Even if Kyle were an ordinary person, did that mean he deserved to be bullied by the Cotton family?

In Chloe's eyes, however, Kyle was the one doing the bullying now.

To her, Kyle should have simply accepted everything arranged for him—it was his fate. Even if he was humiliated, he should have borne it quietly.

But Kyle was fighting back. And not just fighting back—he was doing so with shocking ruthlessness. To Chloe, it was nothing short of rebellion.

Chloe sneered. "Finally showing your true colors, huh, Kyle? You've lost everything, so now you're resorting to this just to get Belle's attention, aren't you?

"You want to prove you're not a pushover, that you can fight and act all tough? Pathetic. You're just a clown. As a man, you're utterly shameless.

"Let me tell you this—when Belle arrives and sees all this, she'll only be more disgusted with you. Her attitude toward you won't improve in the slightest. You weren't good enough for Belle before, and now you're even less worthy!"

Clearly, they were the ungrateful ones, yet they spoke as if they held the moral high ground. Chloe called Kyle shameless, but who were the truly shameless ones here?

Kyle shook his head bitterly. "You talk too much. It's pointless. Fine, if you all think I'm not worthy, then I'm not worthy. Let's just say I did all of this on purpose. Go ahead and call Belle.

"If she wants to save Matthew, tell her to come here herself."

Kyle's tone was resolute, leaving Chloe visibly furious.

"Kyle, you're utterly ungrateful! My words may be harsh, but I'm trying to save you! Do you even know who you've just humiliated? He's not just Belle's brother—Matthew Cotton is a major figure in Kerdonia's underworld. The people backing him can control the entire underground scene here.

"Mr. Clements, with just a wave of his hand, can summon hundreds of men willing to die for him. Killing you and tossing your body into the river wouldn't even cause a ripple. If you still don't believe me, let me tell you this—Mr. Clements answers directly to the most powerful figure in Kerdonia's underground world—Elisa Rivas, the Empress herself!"

There was no need to even mention the Empress Elisa Rivas's name. In Kerdonia, simply bringing up Mike was enough to act with impunity.

But Chloe wanted Kyle to understand that Matthew was no longer the person he used to be. She also wanted to make it clear that crossing Matthew meant Kyle would have no place in Kerdonia.

However, in her eagerness to elevate Matthew, Chloe failed to notice Kyle's subtle reaction—a slight raise of his brow when she mentioned Elisa Rivas, as if he found it surprising.

If Chloe knew that before they had arrived, the so-called "unreachable" Empress Elisa Rivas had personally called Kyle, humbly begging for his help, how shocked would she be?

And if she realized that even Rupert Marshall, someone Elisa dared not offend, owed Kyle a massive debt—one involving a life—how would she react?

"After all that, do I look scared to you? Call Belle Cotton now. If she comes, Matthew can leave."

Kyle shook his head, lit a cigarette, and pointed at Chloe.

"Other than making the call, if you keep running your mouth, I'll slap you twice. Don't believe me? Try me."

Chloe had been talking for a while, but seeing that her words hadn't moved Kyle in the slightest, she grew visibly frustrated.

She didn't want to make the call—not because of Kyle's threats, but because she felt partially responsible for Matthew's current state.

"Kyle Archer, you're so ungrateful!" Chloe snapped, her voice tinged with anger and exasperation.

Chapter 5

As soon as Chloe finished speaking, she immediately regretted it. Reflected in her widening pupils was the image of Kyle stepping toward her.

"You—what are you doing? Are you crazy? Don't tell me you actually want to hit me!"

Kyle didn't waste words. He raised his hand and delivered a crisp slap across Chloe's face.

A bright red handprint immediately appeared on her cheek. The pain was one thing, but what stung more was the psychological shock.

Chloe had thought Kyle was merely trying to intimidate her, but she hadn't expected him to actually hit her so decisively and without holding back.

"To me, anyone who becomes my enemy—man or woman—deserves what's coming to them. If you need to be hit, I'll hit. If you need to be killed, I'll kill. This is your final warning. If you say another word, I'll break your legs. Go ahead, try me."

In an instant, everyone around felt their scalps tingle.

The look in Kyle's eyes made it clear he wasn't joking.

Kyle wasn't just ruthless now—he was utterly cold-blooded.

Even if they planned to retaliate later, no one dared speak up at that moment. They could only stand there in stunned silence.

Chloe clutched her stinging cheek, her teeth clenched in fury, but all she could do was dial Belle's number.

She reported everything—the chaos, the injuries—and emphasized how Kyle had humiliated her and beaten Matthew.

On the other end of the line, Belle was incredulous.

In her memory, Kyle was timid and reserved. How could he possibly hit someone, let alone beat them to such a degree?

But the facts spoke for themselves. Whether she believed it or not wouldn't change anything.

"Well, it looks like she'll come," Kyle said casually as he poured himself a glass of water and settled into the couch. His demeanor was calm, as if nothing had happened.

Chloe sat on the floor, still holding her cheek. She wanted to say something, but the sharp sting reminded her to stay silent.

The Kyle Archer sitting before her now was like a madman—someone who had lost everything and reached the brink of despair.

Meanwhile, at the Life Pharma headquarters, Belle sat in her office, her eyes blazing with anger.

After hearing Chloe's report, she slammed the phone down and barked, "Get all the bodyguards and security staff together. Wait for me downstairs."

After issuing the order, Belle grabbed the divorce agreement on her desk, gripping it tightly as she seethed.

"Kyle, I was trying to leave you some dignity out of old feelings, but now? You've gone insane. Beating Matthew is one thing but even daring to hit Chloe? You've completely lost your mind.

"It seems the only thing you learned in those six years in prison is how to fight. Fine. Let me show you just how powerless you are in Kerdonia."

By the time Belle appeared at the building's entrance, her face was dark with fury. Around 30 bodyguards and security personnel waited for her, forming an imposing presence.

The group got into their vehicles, forming a long convoy as they headed toward Kyle's residence.

When they arrived, Belle was stunned.

She had thought Chloe might be exaggerating, but the scene before her left no room for doubt.

Chloe sat on the ground, a vivid handprint still visible on her face. Matthew lay sprawled on the floor, his face so swollen he looked unrecognizable. He didn't even dare to approach Belle, let alone speak to her.

And the culprit behind it all—Kyle Archer—sat calmly in the corner, sipping tea with a look of complete indifference.

Belle's fury reached its peak.

"Kyle, you're nothing but a bastard!"

Belle stormed up to Kyle, her face full of anger. She slapped the teacup right out of his hand.

"You're upset about the divorce—I get that. But how dare you hit Matthew and beat him like this? Do you even have a conscience?"

Without bothering to understand what had happened, Belle immediately launched into accusations, placing all the blame on Kyle. He felt a pang of sorrow in his heart.

Had six years really turned Belle into someone so unreasonable?

Was this ferocious woman truly the same person he had once loved so deeply—the one he had gone to prison for?

Kyle couldn't pinpoint exactly what had changed her. Was it money? Or power?

What he did know was that this Belle Cotton was no longer the woman he once knew.

He stood up, his eyes sweeping over the 30 or so bodyguards Belle had brought with her. Shaking his head in resignation, he felt nothing but bitter disappointment.

"Belle, do you even know where you are right now? You think I hit Matthew because I was upset? If you had any sense of fairness, you'd know it was Matthew who came looking for trouble.

"Do you really think I should just stand there and let him insult me and let him hit me without fighting back?"

To Belle, Kyle's life meant less than Matthew's feelings. Why would she even care about the truth?

In Belle's eyes, the only truth was that Matthew had been beaten by Kyle.

"You're nothing! Even if Matt did something wrong, it's not your place to discipline him!"

Her voice grew louder, her tone more cutting, as her anger escalated.

Kyle felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness. He had sacrificed everything for her, yet she couldn't even distinguish right from wrong. It was truly pathetic.

"Belle, don't you feel even a little guilty about being so ungrateful and unjust? Do you even remember the person you used to be?"

Before Kyle could finish, Belle interrupted with a furious shout.

"Guilty? What do I have to feel guilty about? The old Belle Cotton was poor, weak, and useless, clinging to nothing but laughable kindness!

"Well, let me tell you, the old Belle Cotton is dead. If you want to reminisce about her, do it on your own. The person I am now has nothing to do with you.

"Kyle, don't ever let me see you again. This is the last chance I'm giving you. You want to call me ungrateful? Fine. Let's end this for good. I suggest you leave Kerdonia immediately. Even if I let you go today, Matthew won't."

Her words didn't stir any reaction in Kyle.

Every time Belle spoke, she only made him more disillusioned with her.

"Let's just say I'm repaying you for everything I once owed you. That's why I'm giving you the money and the house in the divorce. But don't expect to get anything more. Leaving you alive is already me being merciful. Now get lost."

Belle even had the audacity to bring up money again.

Kyle found it both infuriating and laughable. From the very beginning, he had never asked for a single cent.

All of this was just Belle's own self-righteousness.

He had made it clear—he didn't want anything.

Yet such a simple truth was something no one seemed willing to believe.

"Leaving me alive is you being merciful? Fine. I'll stay right here. Let's see what you and your people can actually do to me, Kyle Archer."

Kyle waved his hand dismissively. "I told you, if you came, you could take Matthew away. I'm a man of my word. But I don't want to see you again—you make me sick.

"Now, get out. All of you."

Belle gave Kyle a long, piercing look, her lips curling into a mocking smile.

"Kyle, perhaps it's time I let you see what the world really looks like."

Kyle narrowed his eyes slightly, sensing a deeper meaning behind her words.

Belle motioned for her people to carry Matthew out. Standing at the doorway with her back to Kyle, she said coldly, "I'll contact you in the next couple of days. I won't do anything to you. But if you're scared, you can hide—or run."

With that, Belle left with her entourage.

First, they loaded Matthew into the ambulance, and then Belle and Chloe followed in another car.

Matthew's injuries were severe. There was no way Belle could pretend nothing had happened, nor could she avoid telling Margaret. But she knew that once Margaret found out, the situation would spiral into even bigger trouble.

As Belle sighed deeply, her gaze landed on Chloe's still-reddened cheek.

"I'm sorry, Chloe, for what you went through. I'll make it up to you."

This entire mess had partly been Chloe's fault, so she didn't dare accept any compensation from Belle.

But the humiliation she had endured still left her feeling deeply frustrated.

"Belle, are you really going to let Kyle off so easily?

"Even if you choose to let it go, Matt won't. He'll definitely go to Mr. Clements, and he won't let Kyle get away with this."