Chapter 1

I can see the countdown to death above everyone's head.

And my wife, Vivian Ashford—her death was scheduled for today.

For ten years, she maintained the illusion that she couldn't have children.

But today, she brought home a five-year-old boy, along with her lover.

She laid her cards on the table, and the elders gathered around, urging me to be magnanimous.

"Marcus, Vivian hasn't had it easy. Women always love children—just think of him as another son. What's the harm?"

I watched the rapidly ticking countdown above her head: [00:01:30].

I said quietly, "I won't acknowledge this child of unknown origin."

Vivian looked at me like I was a fool she'd completely manipulated.

She proudly wrapped her arm around her true love's waist and announced, "Whether you acknowledge him or not, I can't abandon them—father and son. From now on, I'll spend days with you and nights with him..."

Countdown: [00:00:10].

I spoke calmly: "If that's how it is, then let's get divorced."

Her eyes widened in fury. Just as she was about to explode, she suddenly clutched her chest and collapsed straight down.

The countdown reached zero.