Inside the healing room, machines hummed quietly beside the bed where Raphael Foster lay motionless with his body covered in bandages from head to toe. Thick tubes delivered oxygen into his lungs while healing fluids dripped steadily into his veins. Outside, the apocalypse continued to rage, while Raphael's consciousness drifted like a feather caught in a storm. For three days, the therapists had worked without rest. The door opened, and footsteps echoed through the room. Almost immediately, Raphael heard a familiar voice. It was Dorothy—his wife. Warmth spread through his chest. She had finally come to see him. But then, without warning, he heard her say, “Disconnect the life-support equipment.” The therapist hesitated and his hands trembled. Raphael had risked his life to save the entire base, and now, if the life-support equipment were disconnected, he would surely die. Deep inside, Raphael screamed. Don't do it. Please, I'm still here. I can hear everything. But

Dorothy's impatient voice echoed through the apartment. "I said move! I'm going out." She rolled her eyes. "Meeting my friends is my personal freedom. I'm married to you, not imprisoned by you. You have no right to interfere. So step aside or else..." “Or else what? Who gave you the authority to threaten me?” In his former life, Raphael had been nothing short of a fool. Thinking about it now, he wished he could grab his younger self and knock some sense into him. What on earth had he been thinking? “What… did you just say?” Dorothy's eyes widened with shock. "You actually raised your voice at me? Have you completely lost your mind?” For the first time since she'd known him, Raphael didn't apologize, instead, he had talked back. Dorothy's anger was soon replaced by confusion. What had happened to him? She knew Raphael better than anyone. Whenever she frowned or even showed the slightest sign of displeasure, he would immediately admit fault, apologize, and do whatever she wanted

Mrs. Carter felt a quiet sense of relief after hearing Raphael speak with such certainty.At least this time, he seemed to have finally awakened. But after a moment, she instinctively glanced toward the apartment door. She lowered her voice and spoke cautiously."Young Master... perhaps you should speak a little more quietly."Raphael raised an eyebrow."The neighbors are still outside," she added. "They're probably waiting to see how this ends."Raphael glanced toward the door. He could already imagine the scene. The gossip-loving neighbors were probably gathered in the hallway, pretending not to listen while eagerly waiting for the next argument.In his previous life, Raphael would have been embarrassed. Not anymore."Let them hear." His voice remained completely indifferent. "If they enjoy gossiping, then let them gossip."Mrs. Carter hesitated and Raphael almost smiled.As someone who had been reborn with memories of his previous life intact, he knew exactly what was happening at

Soon, Jake and Dorothy arrived at the Exquisite Lounge.Jake drove directly into the private parking area before leading Dorothy through the VIP entrance. A staff member immediately greeted them and escorted them to one of the most exclusive private rooms in the lounge.The moment they stepped inside, the atmosphere became lively.Several old friends had already arrived.When they saw Jake personally bringing Dorothy in, their expressions immediately changed and whispers spread through the room."Isn't that Dorothy?""And she's here with Jake?""They really do seem close."The looks exchanged between the guests said everything. No one needed an explanation. To everyone present, it was obvious that Dorothy and Jake shared a special relationship.After all, Jake had personally driven across the city to pick her up on her birthday. He had brought her here himself and stayed by her side as though they had never been separated.Dorothy noticed the curious looks but didn't bother explaining

Meanwhile, the neighborhood housekeepers' group chat was buzzing throughout the night. Messages appeared one after another.Did you hear? Raphael really told Dorothy to leave.Apparently, he even told her they were getting divorced tomorrow.Do you think he's finally serious this time?At first, most people remained skeptical. After all, everyone had seen this drama before.Raphael had threatened divorce countless times, only to apologize shortly afterward and beg Dorothy to come home. But tonight felt different.Raphael hadn't chased after her. He hadn't even called or apologized. He had even blocked Lillian, Dorothy's friend, after she tried to intervene.The more details emerged, the more convinced everyone became.Raphael was genuinely serious about ending the marriage.Meanwhile, back at the Exquisite Lounge, the evening gradually came to an end, and Lillian approached Dorothy before leaving and gave her a playful wink."Well, don't waste this opportunity. After all, your first l