Chapter 1

When I saw Asher again, he had transformed from an obscure actor into a powerful business magnate.

Six years ago, I left the country when he needed me the most.

Now, as we meet again, I'm on the verge of losing my eyesight, and his partner is a newly crowned Oscar-winning actress.

Everyone envies them for being the perfect couple, yet my unexpected presence at the press conference made Asher lose his composure.

"You've finally returned. At this press conference, I'll introduce you to some directors. Maybe they have roles for you," my old friend Phoebe said, linking her arm with mine.

"I'm up for anything if they pay."

"Even the really intense roles?"

"If the pay is good," I hesitated before replying.

"Didn't you once sacrifice yourself for Asher's future by accepting five million dollars from Mr. Felix? And now it's all gone?"

Phoebe was still upset with the decision I made back then.

Six years ago, Asher and I were minor celebrities. Felix threatened me by leveraging Asher’s career to get what he wanted.

At that time, Asher's career was on the rise, and I couldn't let him be destroyed because of me.

I gripped Phoebe's wrist tightly, my eyes red. "Phoebe, I'm sick."

Phoebe's face turned pale. "What's wrong? I thought you were living it up abroad. How did you get sick so soon after coming back?"

Phoebe softened, her voice becoming gentle.

"Retinitis pigmentosa. I just want to earn as much as I can while I still have my sight, to support myself in the future."

I said calmly, but it made Phoebe's eyes well up with tears.

"Why didn’t you tell me earlier? Does Asher know?"

I hurriedly took her hand. "Please don't tell him. He's happy now."

"Esme! Why are you still as spineless as you were six years ago?!"

"I just don't want to be involved with him anymore."