The Reveal: My Family Is Stronger Than His Empire Free Preview

"I did my best."

The surgery lasted thirteen hours, but the six-month-old baby in Lina Carter's womb couldn't be saved.

As those words left Mia Cole's lips, wails erupted outside the operating room.

Leading the chaos, Margaret Hale let out a shrill scream: "My great-grandbaby!" and fainted on the spot.

Lina's hospital bed was wheeled out, and the crowd swarmed around it eagerly. Faked sobs mixed with gentle comforts reached Mia's ears.

A chill settled in Mia's chest.

She looked up to see Ethan Hale lean over the bed, his fingers gripping the edge, his face filled with concern—as if he were Lina's husband.

The crowd followed the bed into the hospital room.

Mia clutched her mask, exhausted from the long surgery. She stood rooted to the spot while people rushed past her. Not a single person asked, "Are you tired?"

When Mia dragged herself back to the Hale Villa, the servants stared at her coldly, as if she were a plague.

Ethan's sister, Olivia Hale, grabbed a broom from the housekeeper and swiped it hard at Mia's calves. "Get out of here, murderer! Scram—you're bad luck!"

The rough bristles scraped her skin, leaving a bleeding gash.

Mia frowned and let out a soft hiss.

Olivia scoffed. "Think you're so special? Lina's health is fragile, so you got to marry into this family for your medical skills and rare Rh-null blood. Let's be real—you're just a tool, a walking blood bank! You actually thought you mattered? Now you've killed Lina's baby. Good luck explaining that to my brother!"

She spat at Mia with disgust.

In the three years since marrying into the Hale family, Mia had long known her place—she was nothing but a despised pawn.

Everyone here treated her with cold indifference and sarcasm.

She didn't want to argue, and she couldn't afford to. She could only climb the stairs carefully.

Thirteen hours of surgery, plus donating blood during Lina's massive hemorrhage, had left Mia running a low fever and feeling dizzy.

She'd barely lain down when a brute force yanked her off the bed.

Her head hit the headboard with a dull "thud."

Mia's eyes snapped open in pain. When she saw it was Ethan, her eyes filled with tears. "Ethan, you're back. I really did my best to save Lina's baby."

Ethan loomed over her, his fingers tightening around her collar, his gaze sharp as a blade. "Did your best? What did you tell me when Lina's full checkup results came out a few days ago? You said everything was fine. But now, just days later, the baby's gone. And you expect me to believe you did your best?"

Mia bit her lip, tilting her head back, her eyes red at the corners. "Ethan, I truly did everything I could."

Lina had a congenital heart condition. Three years ago, she'd struggled to walk a few steps without gasping for breath and needing oxygen.

Over the three years of Mia's marriage to Ethan, she'd worked day and night to treat Lina with a blend of conventional and holistic medicine. She'd helped Lina recover almost completely—she could even do light exercise.

Except for the time Lina had a heart attack during intimacy with her new husband, Jacob Hale, everything had been smooth.

A few days earlier, Mia had given Lina her regular checkup, and all indicators were excellent. But just days later, things took a sudden turn for the worse.

Mia had only taken one day off when Lina was rushed to the hospital with severe abdominal pain. By the time Mia arrived, the fetus had already lost all vital signs.

Even then, she'd fought to save it—she'd even donated her own blood during the surgery.

She had a clear conscience.

But Ethan's face remained icy as he listened to her explanation.

He sneered. "Is that so? Then why did Lina cry as soon as she woke up, saying you gave her medicine she shouldn't have taken?"

Mia's brows furrowed. "What? That's impossible."

Ethan tightened his grip, lifting her up by the collar, his voice filled with disgust. "Save your excuses for Lina."

Ethan didn't want to say another word to her.

Lina's health is fragile, and pregnancy has always been a risk.

Now that she's lost the baby, her body is damaged—she'll likely never be able to conceive again.

My cousin Jacob and Lina had always dreamed of having a child, and Mia shattered all their hopes.

Margaret had fainted several times from anger. As soon as she woke up, she ordered Ethan to drag Mia back to the hospital.

The moment they entered the ward, the Hale family surrounded her.

Someone suddenly pushed her from behind.

The low fever had left Mia weak. She stumbled forward and crumpled to the floor in front of Lina.

She tried to push herself up, but another kick from behind sent her sprawling. Mia turned around angrily, only to lock eyes with Ethan's cold, dark gaze.

She froze.

"Ethan... you..."

Tall and with a narrow waist, he stared down at her, the bright sunlight highlighting his sinister, cold expression.

His lips were pressed into a thin line, his eyes filled with utter disdain—as if he were looking at something inanimate.

In that moment, Mia suddenly realized how foolish she'd been.

For three years, she'd devoted herself to caring for Lina, thinking her constant efforts would eventually move Ethan. But it had all been a joke.

"Murderer!" Lina's mother, Elaine Carter, shouted from beside the bed. "A vicious woman like you should pay with your life for what you did to Lina!"

She lifted the cup in her hand and smashed it on the floor. Shards of glass flew up, slashing Mia's hand.

Lina, who'd been watching coldly, collapsed into her mother's arms, sobbing uncontrollably—as if she were about to faint.

But Mia knew better.

Hidden behind Elaine, Lina's eyes sparkled with triumph, a cold, vicious smile playing on her lips where no one could see.

"Ethan, I really did my best. I don't know why Lina's baby suddenly stopped breathing. Give me some time, and I'll find out the truth." Mia struggled to her feet, swaying unsteadily, trying to explain rationally, hoping someone would listen.

But her words were quickly drowned out by Lina's sobs. Lina covered her face, her shoulders shaking with grief, and accused through her tears.

"Mia, what are you saying?

"That was my baby—my only baby. Do you think I'd hurt the child in my own womb?

"You gave me some unknown medicine the other day. I said it tasted bitter, but you insisted I drink it. And—"

Lina wiped her tears, her eyes filled with injustice as she glanced at Margaret sitting in the center, biting her lip as if holding back pain.

Margaret slammed her hand on the table. "What else did Mia say?!"

"Mia said if I didn't obey her, she'd make me lose the baby."

Lina looked up, a tear rolling down her cheek perfectly, her voice breaking. "But I did obey, Mia. I drank it. Why did you do this?

"You could have hurt me, tormented me—but why did you have to be so cruel to my baby?

"I know you're jealous that Ethan cares about me. But we've been childhood sweethearts. Some bonds can never be broken."

Lina sobbed violently, sneaking glances at Margaret's expression.

When she saw the older woman's face turn bright red with anger, her cane creaking in her grip, Lina smiled secretly and closed her eyes.

She pretended to faint from exhaustion in her mother's arms.

Margaret's cane came crashing down on Mia's back.

Mia had no time to dodge, taking the full blow. Her body lurched forward.

No one helped her. They just watched coldly as her forehead slammed into the mahogany chair, splitting open and bleeding profusely.

Mia held her head, the sticky blood blurring her vision.

"From today on, you're fired from the hospital. You'll take care of Lina full-time. Nothing else can go wrong for the rest of her life. You'll atone for what you've done!"

Margaret's words hit Mia like a hammer, making her dizzy again.

"That's impossible!" Mia gritted her teeth through the pain, her voice firm. "I've studied medicine since I was a child. I'll never give up my career for anyone. Besides, I told you I did my best. I don't know why Lina's baby suddenly stopped breathing, but this accident has nothing to do with me. I never gave her any medicine that went against her condition."

"Still lying!" Margaret struck again, the cane hitting Mia's body. "Ethan! This is the woman you married!

"Disobeying her elders and harming Jacob's wife—how dare she!"

Mia tried to explain her innocence, but before she could speak, Ethan's icy voice came from behind her. "Either quit your job at the hospital and spend the rest of your life caring for Lina to atone... or get a divorce."

"Ethan?"

Mia froze.

She'd never expected him to take her side.

But she'd always thought he was at least fair—he wouldn't jump to conclusions based only on Lina's one-sided story without an investigation.

Now, even that last glimmer of hope was gone.

Mia hung her head and let out a bitter laugh.

This was the man she'd tried so hard to warm with her love. This was the man she'd married even when it meant defying her father.

Three years.

Three whole years.

She knew he'd always had feelings for Lina, knew they were childhood sweethearts. But Lina had married his cousin, so Mia had hoped that with enough sincerity, Ethan would eventually see her worth.

So when Ethan had proposed marriage on the condition that she take care of Lina's health, she'd agreed without hesitation.

She'd never imagined that three years later, Ethan would say the word "divorce" so casually.

Mia looked up at Ethan standing across from her.

His cold eyes held no warmth, his sharp face emotionless. When he looked at her, he was just as distant and icy as he'd been three years ago.

Mia thought bitterly. I've been so naive.

No matter how hard you try, someone who doesn't like you will never change their mind.

"Mia! Did you hear Ethan? Quit your job, or get divorced!" Margaret stared at her with a sneer, utterly convinced Mia would back down.

"I told you." Mia straightened up slowly, a look of realization crossing her face. "I did everything I could. If you suspect I made a mistake with the medication, you can ask the hospital's oversight board to investigate. But I will never give up my career."

As soon as the words left her mouth, Margaret slammed her palm on the table, pointing a finger at Mia's face.

"Did everything you could?!" she scoffed.

"You dare mention the hospital's oversight board? Do you really think I don't know you and your colleagues are in cahoots? Lina told me everything—how you mistreated her at the hospital, and how you all covered for each other! You bullied our precious Lina, and now you want to hide it!

"Fine! Since you're so stubborn, Walter! Lock her in the utility room! She stays there until she admits her mistake!

"And since she's so mouthy, no food for her! Just give her enough water to stay alive!"

Mia couldn't believe her ears. This was a modern society governed by laws—how could they talk about locking someone up and starving them?

She didn't argue right away. Instead, she looked at Ethan.

She knew she was being foolish, but she was desperate to confirm his thoughts one last time.

Ethan's cold gaze fell on her. "Think it over. Then come talk to me. You're responsible for what happened to Lina—no matter what."

"Ethan, why are you wasting your time with her?" Olivia had never liked Mia. She thought Ethan had only married her under duress. Ever since Mia joined the family, Olivia had made her life miserable. "Throw her in the utility room and starve her for three days. We'll see if she's still so stubborn then!"

Mia ignored Olivia. She didn't care what Olivia thought. The only person whose opinion mattered was Ethan's.

She looked at him straight on. "Ethan, I never had any intention of hurting Lina. I'm a doctor. I would never mistreat my patient. You've always prided yourself on being fair and rational. Can't you give me the same fairness?"

Her eyes were earnest.

She didn't ask for favoritism—just a chance to prove her innocence. A fair investigation. A proper explanation.

That's all she wanted.

But in the end, she was disappointed.

The butler, Walter Reeves, dragged her toward the utility room.

The heavy door closed slowly in front of her. Mia watched as Ethan's face disappeared behind the narrowing gap.

Panic fluttered in her chest, but the man's eyes remained cold, no trace of affection for her.

She hesitated, wanting to step forward, but his icy gaze stopped her in her tracks. Mia stood there, heartbroken, as his face vanished completely.

She had no idea how long she stayed in the pitch-black utility room.

All she knew was that the floor beneath her fingers was damp.

The air was thick with a cold, eerie chill.

Soft creatures scurried past her, accompanied by terrifying squeaks.

Her initial sorrow faded into numbness. Finally, she collapsed onto the cold floor, her love for Ethan fading away with each passing minute.

She'd been trapped in that dark space for what felt like an eternity when the heavy door creaked open.

Blinding sunlight streamed in.

Ethan stood in the light, his voice cold as he tossed out a question. "Admit you're wrong yet? If you do, go to the hospital to take care of Lina right away."

That last flicker of love vanished with his words.

But Mia was still unwilling. She couldn't tell if it was because of the three years she'd wasted, or because she couldn't bear to let go of Ethan.

"I tried my hardest to save Lina," she said, looking up. "I truly did nothing wrong. If you'll let me, give me time to go to the hospital and find the truth. I'll give you a satisfactory answer. Please?"

It was her last attempt to save their relationship.

"Give you time?" The mockery in Ethan's eyes cut deep. "Time to cover up what you did?"

Even though she'd expected this response, Mia's heart ached.

She stumbled to her feet, standing in the shadows. She had to ask one more question. "Ethan, in these three years... did you ever like me? Even for a moment?"

Ethan froze, then let out a laugh—sharp and full of disdain. In an instant, Mia understood.

That laugh was like a harsh slap, waking her up from her delusions.

"Oh, you never did," she muttered, her face turning pale. "Okay. I was just being silly."

"Then..." Mia gave a bitter smile. "Let's get divorced."

Ethan stared at her in shock for a few seconds, his brows furrowing as he glared at her coldly.

He'd thought after spending a night in the utility room, Mia would apologize and give in, just like she always did. He'd expected her to quit her job as the hospital's department head without complaint.

He'd never imagined she'd be the one to say "divorce."

Absolutely ridiculous—she's truly unrepentant!

Mia watched his reaction, then laughed at herself.

She'd always obeyed Ethan without question. Now that she'd finally stood up to him, his surprise was hardly unexpected.

She took a deep breath and repeated herself, her voice steady despite his stunned silence. "Ethan Hale, let's get divorced."

With those words, she lifted her head and stepped over the threshold.

She walked slowly. The low fever from the day before had worsened in the damp, cold air. The blows from Margaret's cane left her back aching. The memory of creatures scurrying over her fingers sent shivers down her spine.

Even so, she kept moving forward, determined.

She was leaving this place, leaving the Hale family, leaving the marriage she'd once thought would last a lifetime.

Mia left the Hale Villa without looking back. She didn't even grab her luggage.

The servants whispered behind her back.

"Pfft—she says she wants a divorce, but she didn't take anything? If she's playing hard to get, she should at least put on a better show."

"Exactly. She acts all high and mighty, but she only married Mr. Hale for his money. Word is, they never even slept together after all these years."

"Lucky for him. A woman with such a vicious heart doesn't deserve Mr. Hale. But I bet she won't go through with the divorce."

"Me too. How much can a gynecology department head make a month? She's just putting on an act. She'll quit her job and come back to take care of Lina sooner or later."

"Talk is cheap. If she's so tough, why not actually get divorced?"

...

The mocking words faded as Mia walked farther away.

She felt terrible. A high fever had left her weak and shaky.

After years of working as a doctor, she knew her body was at its breaking point.

She struggled to stay upright as she waited for a taxi.

Suddenly, a cold gust of wind hit her. A sleek black car raced past, barely missing her.

Mia stumbled back slowly. Through the window, she caught a quick glimpse of Ethan's sharp profile.

The window rolled up, cutting off her view.

She froze, then let out a heartbroken laugh.

Three years of sincere marriage, and this is how he treats me—as an enemy. What a failure.

As the car turned the corner, the driver glanced at the shaky woman in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Hale, Mrs. Hale looks really unwell. What if she collapses outside our gate? It would look bad if it hits the news."

Ethan, who'd had his eyes closed, opened them slowly. They were cold as ice. "She caused Lina to miscarry. Even if she died right now, she couldn't atone for that sin."

The driver smiled faintly where Ethan couldn't see, then replied calmly, "Yes, sir."

In the next second, the car merged into the heavy traffic.

Under the scorching sun, Mia's legs gave out. Dehydration left her lips dry and cracked.

She tried to stay awake, shaking her head, but the dizziness only got worse. She stumbled forward.

For a moment, her heart raced wildly. She clutched her chest, struggling to breathe.

When she looked up, the world spun around her.

She felt light as a feather. A leaf fell from a nearby tree. Through blurred vision, she saw a sharp, familiar face.

It felt like she'd seen him before.

She tried to open her eyes wider, but she was too tired. As she closed them, she heard someone call her name. "Mia!"

When Wendy Reed arrived at the hospital after getting the call, Mia was already unconscious.

Her face was as pale as a sheet.

She trembled uncontrollably in her sleep, cold sweat pouring from her forehead. She looked like she was on the verge of death.

Colleagues from the gynecology department gathered around.

The hospital director looked at Mia lying motionless on the bed, filled with a mix of sympathy and anger. "She donated so much blood and pulled an all-nighter for the surgery, but when she got sick, she had to take a taxi alone and collapsed right at the hospital gate! The Hales have gone too far!"

The head nurse was furious, pointing in the direction of Lina's ward. "How shameless can the Hales be? Treating our director like this—does money make them untouchable?!"

The angry colleagues quickly wheeled Mia into a private room.

Mia's high fever lasted all night. When she woke up, she was too weak to sit up straight, leaning against the headboard.

Her eyes stared blankly into space, replaying the events of the previous day.

Tears filled her eyes as she remembered. Three years of her youth—gone. The man who'd warmed her countless times in the quiet of night when they were kids had hurt her so deeply as an adult.

Mia pulled her knees to her chest, hugging herself tightly as silent tears fell.

She'd thought that if she gave her true feelings, she'd get true feelings in return.

She'd thought that if she worked hard enough, obeyed well enough, even an iceberg would melt.

A woman's delusions—they're deadly.

No wonder everyone called her stupid. Now that she thought about it, even "stupid" was too kind.

When she woke up again, the sky outside was bright.

Sweat soaked her clothes, making her uncomfortable. After changing, her colleagues and Wendy walked in together.

Wendy held a warm breakfast in her hands.

"Mia, you're awake!" Wendy patted her chest, letting out a long sigh of relief. "You scared me to death! I thought I was coming to collect your body!"

Mia thought she was overreacting, but she smiled softly. "I'm fine now."

"Ms. Cole, rest easy. We'll take turns looking after the patients these days. Don't worry about anything—we've got your back," said Chloe Rae from the department, stepping forward bravely.

Since Mia had joined Mercy Hospital, the cardiothoracic surgery department's performance had skyrocketed. Later, when Lina got pregnant, Mia had transferred to gynecology to be the director.

Everyone had resented the "outsider" taking the top spot, especially the senior staff.

But after watching her perform a few surgeries, they'd been completely convinced. Thanks to Mia, Mercy Hospital's gynecology department had become one of the top in the country in just a few months, with a 99% success rate.

Everyone respected her deeply.

As soon as Chloe finished speaking, the other colleagues nodded in agreement.

After telling everyone to get back to work, Mia turned to Wendy by her bed. "Where's my phone?"

Wendy was instantly on high alert. "Mia, don't tell me you're going to call Ethan again—chasing after someone who doesn't care about you?"

Wendy had seen Ethan's car speed past Mia without stopping. She'd been so angry she could have exploded on the spot!

Knowing Mia hated hearing Ethan criticized, Wendy muttered, "If you insist on chasing him, at least wait until you're better. Otherwise, how can you be his walking Rh-null blood bank?"

Walking Rh-null blood bank.

Mia frowned, then laughed helplessly. The description—

It's actually pretty accurate.

"No, I want to check the news online."

Knowing Lina's usual tactics, she was sure Lina would play the victim after losing the baby.

She'd pretend to cry to the Hales, blaming Mia for being irresponsible.

And since Lina had accused Mia of tampering with her medicine, she wouldn't stop at just telling the Hales.

She'd called Mia so affectionately before—who knew she'd been planning this all along.

Pretending to be innocent, letting Mia take care of her like a nanny for three years. Now that her health was almost back to normal, she'd stabbed Mia in the back.

The overwhelming news online confirmed Mia's suspicions.

"Why bother?" Wendy groaned. "I told you Lina's no good—she's got a ton of tricks up her sleeve. Someone as straightforward as you was never going to win against her. You even said she was kind-hearted! Look at what they're saying about you online—calling you vicious!

"And Ethan's such an idiot! How can he be a CEO with that brain? It makes the job sound so unimpressive!"

Mia didn't reply, just stared down at her phone.

The news was everywhere—no mention of Ethan or the Hales. All the blame was directed at her and Mercy Hospital.

For a doctor, reputation was everything.

Mia didn't care about her own reputation, but she couldn't let the hospital suffer.

Lina's move is ruthless—she's hit where it hurts the most.

But what Lina doesn't know is that if I could heal her, I could just as easily make her die. Besides, a congenital heart condition doesn't just disappear because she feels better!

It requires long-term care. Otherwise, why would anyone die from heart disease?

Mia laughed at her own foolish devotion and at Lina's ignorance.

Wendy, standing beside her, felt a chill run down her spine at that laugh. She stammered, "W-what's wrong with you?

"Even if you're upset, it's okay. We'll get back at them later. That laugh of yours is scaring me!

"Okay, I'm sorry! I won't call Ethan a j*rk or Lina a schemer anymore—promise!"

Mia looked up at Wendy's cautious face. She realized her past defense of Ethan had given Wendy the wrong impression.

Her throat was dry and sore, but she explained slowly, "I think... you're right."

With that, she finished the water in her glass and lay back down to rest.

She left Wendy standing there, looking like she'd been struck by lightning.

Mia—

Has she really changed her mind?

I badmouthed Ethan, and Mia actually agreed with me?!

Wendy quickly peeked out the window.

Hell must have frozen over.

Mia closed her eyes, a dull ache still lingering in her chest.

Three years.

She'd felt tired countless times.

But she'd always searched for crumbs of kindness in the mess.

A single smile from Ethan, an unintentional gesture—she'd automatically twisted them into something special.

Mia realized deeply. When you love someone, it's easy to convince yourself of their feelings. They don't have to do anything. Just standing there from a distance is enough to pull you in completely.

Three years.

It's time to wake up.

She drifted off to sleep again.

No more worrying about Lina's health, no more trying to please Ethan—she slept more peacefully than she had in years.

When she woke up, Wendy was peeling an orange by her bed. Voices drifted in from the hallway as patients walked past.

"Mia Cole? Is that Dr. Mia Cole from this hospital?"

"It must be. She specifically mentioned the gynecology director at Mercy Hospital—it has to be her."

"Ugh, really? Should we switch doctors? I struggled so hard to get pregnant. I don't want to take any chances."

"I was thinking the same thing. Did you see the news? It says she forces patients to buy expensive medicine from a specific shop during treatment. They say the bills are expensive enough to buy a house!"

"Are you serious? How greedy can she be?!"

"Doctors these days have no ethics. They'll do anything for money. I heard previous incidents were covered up by the hospital. This time, it came out because she caused the Hale Group's heir's wife, Lina Carter, to miscarry."

"Oh no! I'm switching doctors immediately! My family can't afford that kind of money. This baby was conceived through IVF after years of trying. If anything happens to it, I can't go on!"

"Why switch doctors? Let's switch hospitals entirely. They're all in it together—one bad apple ruins the whole bunch!"

...

Mia frowned slightly.

Wendy, always quick to anger, rolled up her sleeves and was about to storm out. But Mia stopped her.

"Mia! Let me go teach those gossips a lesson! They're judging you without knowing anything about your skills!"

Mia stayed calm. "Let it go.

"I understand how they feel. When a woman is carrying a life, every heartbeat and kick makes her fierce and protective.

"They don't know my expertise. They just follow rumors, going wherever they hear the doctors are good. All they want is a healthy baby. So I don't blame them."

The ones to blame are those who tarnished my reputation—and the hospital's!

"Then what do we do?" Mia was practically Wendy's idol. Seeing her idol misunderstood made Wendy want to scream. "We can't just let them slander you like this! A doctor's skills and ethics matter, but reputation matters too."

With this kind of dirty accusation hanging over her, how will she ever clear her name?

Wendy felt hopeless.

Whenever Ethan or Lina was involved, Mia always handled things irrationally.

She was terrified Mia would let her anger get the better of her, bite her tongue, and ruin her medical career.

"Don't worry," Mia said softly, noticing Wendy's concern. "I'll fix this soon."

Wendy's shoulders slumped.

Fix it.

How?

By swallowing her pride again and doing nothing?

Wendy pulled her hair in frustration, wanting to scream.

Mia didn't elaborate on her plan.

Instead, as Wendy paced frantically around the room, she casually dropped a bombshell. "I left my old clothes at the Hale Villa. I don't want them anymore. Can you buy me a new outfit? First, I need to get a divorce."

Mia said "divorce" with a calm expression—no anger, no impulsiveness. It sounded like a well-thought-out decision.

Mia had never been an impulsive person.

She was always rational. The only time she'd ever lost her composure was when it came to Ethan.

Hearing her say she wanted a divorce, Wendy froze.

"M-Mia, what did you just say?!" She couldn't believe her ears.

"I said I'm getting a divorce. But I need something appropriate to wear—will you help me?"

"AAAAH!!!"

Wendy screamed at the top of her lungs, throwing her arms around Mia so tightly that Mia could barely breathe. She pulled back only when she realized she was choking her.

Wendy's eyes were red, her voice thick with tears. The usually tough woman sounded like she was about to cry.

"Mia! I thought you'd keep going down that dead-end road forever!

"I thought you'd be stuck with that j*rk Ethan for the rest of your life!

"To hell with being a walking Rh-null blood bank! Let's get divorced right away and start a happy new life!"

As she spoke, Wendy rummaged through her bag for her phone, as if afraid Mia would change her mind. She spoke urgently to her secretary on the other end, "Emergency! Draft a divorce agreement immediately!"

"Assets?" Wendy glanced at Mia, who shook her head. She hesitated for a moment, then waved her hand generously. "Ugh, is Mia short on cash? We don't want any of his money—let's call it funeral expenses for that Hale guy. Have the divorce papers delivered to Mercy Hospital within an hour!"

After hanging up, Wendy rushed toward the door, shouting over her shoulder. "Mia! Wait for me! Your new outfit will be here soon!"

Mia smiled softly as she watched Wendy's hurried back.

She must be really scared I'll regret it.

Once Wendy left, Mia made a phone call.

More and more reporters with cameras had been gathering outside the hospital. The director hadn't said anything, but Mia knew that if a hospital's reputation was ruined, patients would lose trust. Doctors' treatments would be questioned, and medical disputes would easily arise.

So she needed to resolve the Lina situation quickly.

Before, she'd hesitated because of Ethan—loving him meant putting up with the entire Hale family.

Now that she was getting a divorce, she had nothing to lose. Mia acted with surprising decisiveness.

First, she went to the director's office and submitted her resignation.

The director was shocked. He tore up the resignation letter on the spot. "Whoa, whoa, whoa—Dr. Cole! What are you doing? You're going to give me a heart attack!

"Is it because I told you to take a break? You have to understand—public opinion is fierce right now, and you're just recovering. That's why I asked you to rest. Why on earth are you submitting a resignation letter?"

The director clutched his chest. "You scared me, really. Dr. Cole, you genuinely scared me.

"Just rest! Your salary will be paid as usual. If you're unhappy about something, we can talk. Resigning is out of the question!"

The director's tone was serious, his face trembling.

Are you kidding?

A talented person like Mia is born to hold a scalpel.

He'd seen so many doctors who trembled uncontrollably at the thought of making an incision, their legs shaking and cold sweat pouring down their backs.

But Mia was different. She felt a controlled excitement. Holding a scalpel was like holding a paintbrush for her—her movements were elegant and graceful, as if she were creating a masterpiece rather than performing surgery.

She had a natural passion for medicine. She didn't have the impetuosity of young people. Most importantly, she had a deep, unwavering respect for life.

It was a quality he'd rarely seen in other doctors.

Someone like Mia was born to shine. He would never let that light slip away from his hospital!

Absolutely not!

"Is it because of Lina? Or Ethan? Tell me what you need. If it's care for them, I'll use my personal connections to arrange consultations—anything!"

The director rambled on, out of breath. Mia smiled and dropped her trump card. "Sir, you know my family only let me work here for one year. That time is long past. I should go back now."

The director's fiery enthusiasm instantly cooled, like a bucket of cold water had been dumped on him.

She comes from a billionaire family with thousands of employees depending on her. I couldn't compete with that!

The director glumly picked up the torn resignation letter from the trash, his face dejected. "Fine, you can go. But we have a deal!" He looked at Mia firmly. "If you ever want to switch from holistic medicine to conventional medicine, Mercy Hospital gets first dibs!"

Mia was about to speak when the director hurried to add, "I know you'll say holistic and conventional medicine go hand in hand! Then promise me—if you develop any new treatment methods, you'll tell Mercy Hospital first. This is your home!"

Mia nodded and smiled. "I promise."

When the department colleagues waiting outside heard Mia was leaving, they let out collective groans of disappointment.

Mia bowed politely. "Thank you all for your understanding and care over the past three years. I'm sorry for any trouble I've caused. I hope we'll meet again someday.

"As for the Lina Carter incident—I'll resolve the troubles it's brought before I leave. So don't worry."

Doctors and nurses from the department crowded around Mia, hating to see her go.

But everyone knew there was an agreement between Mia and the hospital.

If she ever wanted to leave, the hospital had to let her go without argument.

No one could stop her.

That was how it felt to be that good.

At only twenty-three, while others were still fighting to get into top hospitals, Mia was already a star in the medical field.

Talent like that got respect anywhere.

She'd wasted three years because of Ethan.

Now that she'd woken up, she was leaving.

It was a good thing.

Still, the doctors and nurses all blamed Lina for Mia's departure.

They would never find another director as skilled, responsible, and willing to teach everything she knew.

As Mia walked down the hospital hallway, she spotted Wendy in the distance.

Wendy stood at the front with a powerful air, several people behind her.

Each of them pushed a rolling wardrobe rack.

"Mia! Where are you going?" Wendy called.

Mia looked at the over-the-top dresses inside the wardrobes, then at the makeup artist right behind them.

She spoke simply, "To see Lina."

"What?!"

Wendy's mouth fell open. The clothes in her hand dropped to the floor. "You're going to see Lina?"

Is she going to beg for mercy again?

Mia saw the misunderstanding. She picked up the clothes and handed them back. "I'm not letting her get away with this."

Mia smiled and gently pushed Wendy's jaw closed. "Wait for me in the room. I'll be back in half an hour."

Mia was logical and always kept her word.

Half an hour later, she left Lina's hospital room.

Lina leaned against her bed, exchanging a confused look with her mother. "Mom, did you notice something different about Mia today?"

Elaine looked smug and arrogant. "What's different? She killed your baby. The Hales blame her for everything. She's just acting like a scared, defeated dog."

Lina still felt uneasy. "Mom, Mia's an amazing doctor. What if she figures out I took pills to lose the baby?"

"No," Elaine said confidently, waving a hand.

"The pills came from your cousin's pharmaceutical company.

Their security is the tightest in the country. He used his highest-level access. No one will ever find out."

Lina wasn't convinced. "Please talk to him again. Mia is careful and sharp. This decides if I can ever be with Ethan. It has to be perfect."

"Fine," Elaine said.

"I'll call him again. It's a shame your husband is so useless.

Otherwise you wouldn't have to risk your health like this."

Elaine pulled out her phone and headed for the door.

Lina frowned and stopped her. "Talk here. Too many people outside. It's not safe."

Elaine muttered, "You're too careful."

But she called anyway, telling the person on the line to make sure nothing got out.

The person on the other end promised confidently and flattered her.

Elaine covered her mouth and giggled.

"Of course. Everyone at the Hales' spoils our Lina like a princess. They're all fools. They didn't even investigate before blaming Mia. She can control the whole Hale family with no effort at all!

"Don't worry. Once Lina leaves that fool Jacob and marries Ethan, she'll be the real lady of the Hale Group. Your company will rise with us. Family takes care of family."

Her laugh was loud and fake.

High in a hidden corner, a tiny red light blinked once.

No one noticed.

When Mia returned to her room, clothes filled nearly every space.

A nurse at the door asked in amazement, "Does Dr. Cole really need all these dresses?"

Wendy put her hands on her hips. "Mia has way more than this. The room's just too small. I only brought a few."

The nurse envied Mia for having such a loyal friend.

Mia went inside and told everyone unnecessary to wait outside.

She called Ethan.

Or rather, she called Ethan's secretary.

After three years of marriage, it was ridiculous.

She always had to reach him through his assistant.

She'd asked for his direct number several times. He never gave it to her.

"Hello," the secretary said, sounding impatient.

The call was on speakerphone, as Wendy had asked.

"Make it quick. Mr. Hale is busy."

Wendy's temper flared at the arrogant tone.

A secretary acts like that only because his boss allows it.

If the secretary is this rude, Ethan must be unbearable.

Mia held Wendy back and spoke coldly to the secretary, "Tell Ethan there's a change in Lina's condition. He can choose to listen or not."

The secretary's attitude shifted at once, though still stiff.

"Fine. Wait."

Wendy slapped her leg in anger. "That's Ethan's doing! Anything about Lina and he drops everything! Sc*m!"

Just then, Ethan's cold voice came over the line. "What's wrong with Lina?"

Mia said, "She's fine. I'm calling about us. I want a divorce."

There was a short pause.

Ethan let out a dismissive scoff. "Regretting it already?"

Wendy was furious but didn't dare ruin Mia's plan.

She turned bright red and held it in.

Mia stayed calm. She always focused on her goal.

She didn't care about Ethan's tone anymore—not after years of being ignored.

"I'm not regretting it. I'm free this afternoon. Set a time. Let's go to the courthouse."

Ethan hesitated again. "You're sure you want a divorce?"

His voice dripped with disdain. "Mia, I don't have time for your little games. Think carefully before you decide."

Mia was direct. "I've thought clearly. Let's meet at the courthouse at two o'clock."

She checked the time. "The divorce papers will be at your office in about five minutes. If that's all, Mr. Hale, I won't keep you."

Mia hung up immediately.

Beeping filled Ethan's office.

Moments later, his secretary knocked and entered.

He saw Ethan's deep, dangerous eyes.

The cold aura around him was terrifying.

The secretary hesitated to go in.

"What?" Ethan looked up, annoyed.

"Um," the secretary hurried over.

"There's a legal document here with your name on it. You should see this."

Ethan opened it.

It was the divorce papers from Mia.

She'd already signed her name. The other line was blank, waiting for him.

The agreement was short.

"Leaving With Nothing" was printed in bold, capital letters.

Ethan laughed coldly and threw the papers onto his desk.

Great.

A new trick to get my attention.

But this style is just disgusting.

The secretary glanced at the papers and sneered.

"Mr. Hale, what is Mia trying to do? Does she think she can escape blame for Lina's miscarriage this way? How stupid can she be?"

The last word was heavy with mockery.

Ethan's face turned icy. "If she wants a divorce, I'll give her one.

I want to see just how she plans to do this."

Ethan cleared his afternoon schedule.

His grandmother had always told him: "Never spoil a woman. Give her an inch, and she'll take a mile."

Ethan sneered.

Mia made a terrible mistake. Instead of apologizing, she's trying to fight back with cheap tricks. I will go this afternoon. I'll watch her beg to stay married. It's time to break her stubbornness. Make her never dare mention divorce again. Make her take care of Lina properly. Leaving with nothing? Please.