Chapter 1

My father had a severe gambling problem, amassing a massive debt that lingered even after he disappeared. To settle it, I became entangled with a local billionaire, Jack, agreeing to a deal of five million a year. But secrets have a way of surfacing. One day, a member of Jack's family arrived at my door, offering me twice the money and stripping away my dignity. It was Jack's son, his handsome face expressionless as he handed me a substantial check and asked, "Is this enough?"

As I exited the private room, I heard him say, "You could have been Mrs. Jack openly. Do you regret it, Judy?"

I didn't turn back after hearing those words. My eyes filled with tears, but I held them back, not wanting to cry in front of him. I wanted to apologize, but my throat was too dry to speak. Jessica's voice came again, asking, "Knowing I'm Jack's son, do you regret it, Judy?" I couldn't bear to listen any longer and quickly left.

Standing at the shop entrance, the relentless snow outside was biting cold. It was December in North City, and the chill cut to the bone. A message from my mom appeared on my phone, asking why I hadn't returned yet since Mr. Jack was waiting for me. My eyes dimmed as I clutched the check in my bag. Just then, my phone rang—it was Jack. I stared at the screen for a moment before answering. His voice came through, slightly distorted, as he got straight to the point:

"Did Jessica come to see you?"

I shivered, unsure if it was due to the cold or him. "Yes."

Hearing my response, he clicked his tongue and said, "I'll send you abroad. Come back in two or three years. After all, Jessica is my only son."

He was suggesting I leave for a few years and return as though nothing had happened. I wanted to object, but I heard my mom's voice on the phone. "We'll do as you say. Judy doesn't have much of an opinion." Jack grunted in agreement and added, "Keep the money Jessica gave you. But don't even think about running away." He chuckled softly and said, "You can try if you want, right, darling?"