Chapter 1

"Mr. Carter, I've decided to hand over my patent to the state and join the medical academy." The principal, Daniel Carter, stood up excitedly. "That's wonderful, Gianna! Your patent will surely save hundreds, if not thousands, of patients. However, this is a top-secret national laboratory, so you'll need to disappear for at least three years. "The departure is in ten days. Are you sure you don't want to discuss this with your boyfriend or family first?" "No need." Gianna Ramsey forced a bitter smile. That house had long ceased to be a place where she belonged. Last year, Maya Bernard, a scholarship student whom the family had been supporting, moved in after her parents died in a car accident. Gianna's father had taken her in. Unlike Gianna, who only knew how to quietly get things done, Maya was skilled at winning people over. It took less than a year for her to become the family's darling. Not only did her father treasure her, but even Gianna's fiancé since childhood and younger brother had grown fond of her. When Maya shattered the portrait of Gianna's late mother, her father merely said it was time to let go of the past and removed the entire portrait. Maya had even wanted to take the heart stent patent Gianna had developed in memory of her mother for herself. To force her into agreement, the childhood sweetheart who had once loved her even threatened to break up. Blood ties and lifelong promises couldn't even compare to a few sweet words from Maya. Now, Gianna was tired of fighting. She simply chose to walk away to free herself of this torment. She returned home. Unlike her lonely existence, the dining room was bustling with laughter. The family was celebrating Maya's one-year anniversary of joining the Ramsey household. Yet no one remembered that it was also Gianna's birthday. Since her mother's passing, no one had ever given her a birthday gift or celebrated with her. She watched as her boyfriend, Ezra Griffith, and her younger brother, Gabriel Ramsey, sat on either side of Maya. Their gazes seemed soft as they handed her presents. There was no flicker of emotion on Gianna's cold face. She was about to walk past the dining room when her father, Christopher Ramsey, called out, "Did you talk to the principal about transferring the patent to Maya like I told you?" Gianna shook her head. "The patent is no longer mine." Everyone assumed she had finally given in. Ezra was overjoyed as he hugged Maya tightly. "This is amazing! It's a national-level patent. With this, you won't have to worry about getting into a good school or finding a job. Congratulations!" Gianna watched indifferently before turning to leave. Then, Maya cut a slice of mango cake and brought it to her. "Gianna, thank you for everything you've done for me. This is for you." As she turned her back to the others, the obedient mask she wore had slipped, revealing a face full of provocation. It was the look of a victor. Gianna's expression remained icy as she spat, "Take it away." Maya had accompanied her two days ago to pick up their medical examination reports. No one else knew about her mango allergy—except Maya. She knew very well what she was doing. "Gianna, why are you throwing a tantrum at her? I was the one who told you to give her the patent. If you're upset, take it out on me." Ezra stood up while staring at Gianna coldly. Maya wiped away her tears and said with a trembling voice, "Ezra, don't blame Gianna. If anyone is at fault, it's me. Nothing in this house was ever truly mine, to begin with. "I know Gianna has always thought I was dirty. I'm sorry, Gianna. If you don't like me, I can move out today. "I never wanted to be a parasite. I just wanted to repay Christopher for his kindness. I'm really sorry..." "Maya, this is your home! If anyone dares to drive you away, I won't stand for it." Gabriel immediately grabbed her hand. Christopher slammed his utensils down in anger. "Everyone was enjoying themselves, and the moment you walked in, you ruined the mood. When will you ever learn? "How did I end up with a daughter as petty and disrespectful as you? Eat the cake. Now. And apologize to Maya." Gianna looked into her father's eyes and saw only disgust. Even though she had already decided to leave this god-forsaken house, her hands trembled involuntarily. It felt as if an iron grip was squeezing her heart. Through clenched teeth, she forced out, "And if I don't?" She barely finished speaking when a sharp slap landed across her face. Then, in his fury, Christopher grabbed the slice of cake and shoved it into her mouth. The attack came so suddenly that before Gianna could react, her lips went numb. Her breathing turned shallow, and her legs gave out beneath her. She quickly collapsed to the floor. Maya gasped in feigned concern. "Gianna, what's wrong? Do you need me to call an ambulance?" "Leave her. She's just putting on a show. Let's continue our meal." … Voices swirled around her in a chaotic blur. Gianna crawled back to her bedroom, barely able to move. She yanked open a drawer, grabbed her medication, and swallowed it dry. Then, she dialed for emergency assistance with the last of her strength. Lying on the floor, she stared blankly at the ceiling with a numb expression. Just ten more days and she could leave this cold, heartless house. She could finally bid her farewell to these vile people. She could go to a place where no one knew her name. As for these estranged blood relatives and a love built on deception—she wanted none of it.