Ch. 1361..1370

Even After Death Chapter 1361-Olivia returned to the Heath residence gloomily. Molly still hadn't gone to bed, and a warm light flickered in her room.

Tatiana let Molly try on the scarf she had just knitted. "They fit just right. I'll knit gloves and a hat for you tomorrow."

Thank you, Mom. In just a few days, Molly had gotten much better. Her cheeks had plumped up a little.

Come on, you don't have to thank me. I'm your mom, after all. In the future, I'll make it up to you even more, so please get well soon.

Olivia knocked on the door and went in. Molly trusted Olivia very much, and her eyes lit up when she saw Olivia.

You're back, Olivia. Where did you go?

I checked in on a patient. Are you okay? Olivia's originally foul mood got better as soon as she saw Molly.

Yes, I'm alright. My stomach stopped aching, and my appetite has improved a lot compared to before. Your medicine is quite effective.

Molly was like the sun. She was sad about losing her child, but she would force a smile in front of everyone else.

She would pretend like nothing had happened, for she didn't want them to be sad because of her.

She was the total opposite of Krystal. One of them was extremely selfish, but the other was too considerate of others.

The former kept hurting people, but the latter kept getting hurt.

It would be better if Molly could be a little more selfish.

Olivia stayed for a moment before returning to her room. Her phone kept vibrating on her bedside table, but she was taking a bath in the bathroom.

Ethan had just arrived at the Heath residence when he was denied passage.

Sorry, Mr. Miller, but Mr. Heath said that if you don't have official business here, you aren't allowed to come in at night.

While the guard was speaking, Yale passed by them with some desserts in his hand.

After Yale let himself loose, his personality changed a lot. If it were before and he saw Ethan being stopped at the entrance, he would pause and mock Ethan.

But now, he was in a hurry. He didn't even want to say anything unnecessary as he walked away. He treated Ethan like air.

He didn't have to fight Ethan anymore. He had let go of everything and lived only for that woman. His life had also become much simpler.

He would ignore people he didn't want to deal with, and he could skip the greetings he wanted to skip. Life wasn't so hard, after all.

Ethan pointed at Yale. "What right does he have to go in, then?"

These are Mr. Heath's orders. Mr. Miller, please don't make this hard for me.

Ethan had no choice but to go back dejectedly. He sat in the car and lit a cigarette.

In reality, Ethan knew why Yale could come and go as he pleased. It was simply because Yale loved Molly, and Molly loved him too.

With Molly's acknowledgment, even if Mason wanted to separate the two, he couldn't bring himself to hurt his daughter at times like this. So, he could only allow Yale to stay.

The biggest difference between Ethan and Yale was that Olivia held the initiative. Olivia wasn't willing to fully believe in Ethan.

Of course, Ethan regretted what he did in the past. But no matter how hard he tried, his relationship with Olivia seemed to be frozen in place. He couldn't get even a little bit closer to her.

Half an hour later, Olivia sent a message in reply, "I'm tired. Let's leave it at that.

You should go to sleep too."

From the trunk, Ethan retrieved the gift he had selected.

There were two large pink bunny plushies with four little bunny plushies standing in front of them. Each bunny had a pink rose in their paws.

It was a very loving scene to behold.

He didn't mainly intend to buy a gift for Erina. Instead, he was actually picking out a gift for Olivia.

After the gift was passed to the security guard, Olivia soon received the adorable gesture of goodwill.

The room she was temporarily staying in was on the second floor, and she could see the main gate from there.

Under the streetlights, the man was covered in snowflakes. He seemed to have sensed her gaze, and he looked up. Their gazes met.

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Even After Death Chapter 1362-Ethan seemed to have guessed that she would be coming over, so he stood under the streetlights. That way, she would be able to spot the white snow on his figure right away.

If her heart ached for him, she would come downstairs.

Olivia was in her bathrobe, holding the gift he had sent her as she looked down at him.

Right after that, she lowered her head and typed something on her phone.

Then, she raised her phone and waved it, gesturing for Ethan to check his phone.

Ethan lowered his gaze, thinking that Olivia did indeed care about him.

But when he unlocked his phone, the smile froze on his face.

Thanks for the gift. The roads might be slippery in this weather, so take care on your way home.

Seeing that Ethan had checked his phone, Olivia turned around and went back to her room. She even drew the curtains, firmly blocking her figure from view.

In his exasperation, Ethan smiled bitterly. He remembered when she was still in school and she came out in her pajamas despite the snow, she had thrown herself into his arms.

They could never return to those days.

His Liv had changed. He was no longer her priority.

Of course, Olivia was aware of his thoughts. He was just trying to make himself look a little pitiful.

She arranged the bunnies neatly on the bedside table. She had accepted the gift, but she didn't forgive him.

Their current relationship was probably the best for both of them.

Olivia slept soundly through the night. When she woke up and drew the curtains, she saw the maids shoveling the snow in the yard. It had snowed heavily overnight.

As Olivia opened the door, the cold air rushed up to her face.

Ms. Olivia. The maids along the way smiled as they greeted her.

Many of them were holding string lights in their hands. New Year's was just around the corner, so it was about time they set up the atmosphere.

The festivities this year were sure to be bustling. Olivia was in a good mood when she thought about meeting her children soon.

Taking out her car keys, she was about to get her car when she spotted the black Bentley quietly parked at the side of the road.

After an entire night, thick snow had piled up on the car.

Olivia felt a little worried. Had that crazy Ethan been here all night?

Wiping away the snow on the glass with her gloves, she saw the man in the driver's seat. His eyes were tightly closed, and his thick eyelashes had covered his profound eyes.

Ethan. She knocked on the glass of the car window.

Fortunately, the man quickly opened his eyes. Opening the door, he swiftly pulled her into his embrace.

He had moved the seat back, but it still felt quite squished with the two of them in one seat.

Olivia supported her hands against his chest, barely maintaining her balance as she frowned. "What are you doing? Do you think that I'll give in if you suffer a little?"

Reaching out, Ethan hugged her tighter. "I didn't mean it like that, Liv. I just wanted to see you first thing in the morning."

Olivia examined his expression. She had no idea if he meant it or not.

Liv, were you mad because I stood you up last night? I'm sorry. I was reminded of Erina's father when I saw her. I'm indebted to Kurt.

Olivia said calmly, "Your debt to Kurt is your business, and you can make it up to his family however you wish. Similarly, I have the right to make a choice.

"I admit that even if she's just a child, I'll still be mad about it. Connor was separated from me right after he was born, and the other children were separated from you.

You feel bad for Erina because she lacks a father's love, but have you ever thought about our children? They're also growing up without their parents around!"

"Ethan, it's true that I love you, but I also hate you. I hate you for being cold and cruel in the past, and you've slowly turned our happy family into what it is now!

The love I have isn't enough to erase the hatred I have toward you. Your tactics to woo me are despicable at best."""

With that, Olivia broke free from his embrace and slammed the door on her way out.

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Even After Death Chapter 1363-Ethan looked at Olivia's figure against the bleak snow. He felt like he had messed up again.

Instead of plots and schemes, he was more intent on seeing her.

With Mason between them and since Olivia had to take care of Molly as well, it had become quite a pipe dream for him to see Olivia.

He knew that Olivia had surgery to perform today, so that was why he kept waiting here. He wanted to see her as soon as she got out of the Heath residence.

He recalled back when he returned from his missions, she would always have some soup ready for him if he informed her beforehand. She would stand at the entrance in her apron, looking out for him.

White snow drifted around her, covering her hair and clothes with a layer of white. She looked as pretty as a picture.

He just terribly missed the past.

Ethan sighed. He had somehow made Olivia mad again. Stepping on the gas pedal, he went after her.

The surgery today would be performed in the basement of Olivia's villa, which was equipped with the most advanced medical equipment. But it was still early when Olivia went back to her home.

The cars, one black and the other white, pulled up. Ethan hastily stepped forward, following Olivia.

The door was then opened. The heater in the house wasn't turned on yet, so it felt like they had walked into a fridge.

Ignoring Ethan, Olivia changed her shoes and went to turn on the heater.

When she felt someone tugging the corner of her coat, she turned around to see the tall man with his head lowered.

His eyes were filled with apology toward her, and his voice was pitiful as he said, "I'm sorry, Liv."

It was fine if he behaved arrogantly about it, but Olivia's heart always softened when she saw people who showed weakness. When she saw him like that, her rage decreased a lot.

What are you sorry for?

You're right, I shouldn't have involved you in my debts to Kurt. I should've drawn my boundaries.

Pursing his lips, Ethan explained, "Back then, I thought that Erina was too young, so if I told her the truth, it might hurt her. Kurt saved my life, so I wanted to take care of his children in his stead.

"But I was stubborn, and I never considered your feelings.

I felt terrible when I saw Zack and the others calling Jack their dad, so when I put myself in your shoes, I realized that your heart must've hurt terribly last night."""

Olivia didn't expect Ethan to accurately identify his mistakes. "I know that I shouldn't hold a grudge against a child, but I can't control my feelings.

"You're indebted to Kurt, but if Erina and I were to get into danger at the same time, are you going to shove me away and choose her again just to repay his kindness?

Getting hit by a bullet once is once too many."""

Ethan pulled her into his embrace. "That won't happen again. Liv, I'm sorry. I'll explain the truth to Erina today, so please give me another chance, alright?

I was inconsiderate, but I swear I won't do it again.

Olivia raised her eyebrow. "Are you really willing to do it? Won't you worry that she might get hurt?"

"She can understand these things now. If she keeps getting the wrong idea about me and Marina, she'll try to get us together. Instead of that happening, I would rather explain it to her right now.

I've been searching for you for the past few years, so I didn't manage to see her. That's why I forgot to explain it to her."

Yesterday, I gave in because I hadn't seen her in forever. I shouldn't have overlooked your feelings.

Lowering his head, Ethan rubbed against her neck. "I wasn't plotting anything by waiting outside the Heath residence this morning. I seriously just wanted to see you as soon as possible."

He sounded extremely wounded. "Your grandpa won't let me see you alone, and you're busy taking care of Molly these days.

Liv, I treasure you, and I care about our children as well. It's almost New Year's, so can you give me a chance to see the children?

He was especially concerned about the tender Willow. They had only spent a short time together in the village before Olivia left with Willow.

Olivia sighed. "Alright, just don't do it again."

He nodded in agreement. "I won't."

Olivia poked at the stubs on his chin. "Go upstairs and wash up."

Sure. Taking her fingertips, he planted a kiss on them. "Have you really calmed down?"

Yes, absolutely.

It was only then that Ethan sighed in relief and went upstairs. Now, he felt like he was walking on thin ice around Olivia.

He had finally contacted her again after a painstaking process, so he was sincerely worried that he might lose Olivia again.

Pride and favor were nothing compared to Olivia.

As Ethan stood in the shower, he recalled the past. Ethan was very grateful to Kurt for sacrificing his life. But in the process of fulfilling Marina's wishes back then, he had even ruined his own marriage.

He should have repaid Kurt's kindness in full a long time ago.

From now on, he wanted to live purely for Olivia and their children.

If the favor was a chain that bound him, he would break it with his own hands.

Sadly, he realized all this only after he lost everything. If he had come to his senses earlier, he wouldn't have wasted all those years away from his family.

When he opened the door, he saw that Olivia had already prepared clothes for him.

He had shamelessly placed some of his clothes here before. When he saw the clean clothes on the bed, a warm smile graced his lips.

After dressing neatly, he noticed that Olivia had asked for some fresh ingredients to be delivered. She was wearing an apron as she cooked up a meal in the kitchen.

Ethan hugged her from behind. Warm air filled the whole room, accompanied by the fresh smell he had on him after washing up.

Liv, I'm so glad you're here.

He was worried that when he went downstairs, a spacious yet cold living room would await him.

Now, Olivia was quite capable. She could just turn around and leave if she got upset. She would find a place to hide just like she had done before, and he wouldn't ever be able to find her.

Breakfast will be ready soon.

Olivia knew that Ethan didn't eat much last night, nor did he eat anything in the morning. She quickly made some chowder and some other foods to go along with it. She also toasted the bread she bought.

Soon, steaming breakfast was laid out on the dining table. Ethan felt as if he was in another world.

In the past, he could witness this scene every day. But now, it was a luxury to him.

Liv, thank you. He held her hands. They had gone through so much together that only they could understand how difficult it was to have a routine life like this.

Lowering her head, Olivia said in a low voice, "Actually, the children miss you too. Even though Willow has never met you as her father, she has always wanted to know the kind of man her father is.

In a few days, we'll go and get the kids home so that we can spend New Year's together.

Alright. Ethan instantly beamed.

In the afternoon, the Carltons came knocking.

When Marina came, Ethan had just woken up from his nap. He was sitting on the couch, reading.

He was wearing a beige turtleneck cashmere sweater. His legs were crossed as he casually leaned against the couch. He was extremely relaxed as if he were in his own home.

He used to only wear dark clothes, but now, he was suddenly wearing a lightcolored outfit. The coldness he exuded had decreased a lot, and he somehow even looked gentler.

You're here. He looked up, behaving just like the man of the house.

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Even After Death Chapter 1365-An ambiguous feeling swelled in Erina. It stifled her chest as she observed Ethan's nonchalant visage.

Were they living together?

She didn't tell Marina what she witnessed last night lest she upset Marina.

Many things transpired within the household, so Erina was more mature compared to her peers. Not only was her EQ similar to that of a teenager, but she was also reticent and sensitive.

She called softly, "Dad."

Ethan closed the book and placed it atop the table.

At that moment, Fabian pushed Marina over. He was slightly surprised by Ethan's presence. "Mr. Miller, are you close with Vanessa?"

Yes. I'll show you the way to the operating room. Ethan stood to lead the group to the basement.

There were so many things Marina wanted to say, yet he didn't give her the chance to do so.

Soon, they reached the basement, where the door to the operating room was left ajar.

Olivia was completely ready in an operating suit as she had sanitized herself beforehand.

Only the light in the middle of the room was turned on, leaving the corners dimly lit. All they could see was her silhouette.

Ethan instructed, "Place Marina on the operating table and you guys can leave."

Marina, who knew Ethan's character very well, had a bad feeling upon hearing that order coming from him.

Marina heard that he had been looking for Olivia all these years, indicating his lingering feelings for her.

Why would he get acquainted with a doctor all of a sudden?

Marina questioned, "Ethan, what's your relationship with Vanessa?"

His voice sounded steely behind her. "It's none of your business."

Then, he left the operating room. He acted so coldly as though they were strangers.

Bitterness imparted in Marina. Although they couldn't get married, was it impossible for them to be friends?

Fabian settled her on the operating table, his cold eyes staring at her. "Marina, I'll be waiting for you outside."

Erina patted the back of Marina's hands. "Don't be afraid, Mom. You'll be fine.

After that, the two left, and Ethan personally closed the door.

Erina seated herself on a chair with a distressed expression. "Dad, will she be alright?"

This was what Olivia wished for, and so Ethan didn't question her actions until the end. Not even Ethan knew what she was going to do.

Erina, I have something to tell you. Come with me upstairs.

Erina's hunch was telling her it had something to do with that woman. A lot of her classmates came from a blended family.

Those married couples appeared to be loving on the outside to hide the true story. Despite maintaining their marital status, they had secret lovers out there.

It was so common that her classmates admitted themselves that they had a step-parent.

Was Ethan going to reveal to Erina that he was going to form another family?

Her instinct urged her to avoid the topic. "Can I stay, Dad? I want to wait until Mom comes out."

He could see through her intention. She was a meticulous kid, indeed.

It won't take up much time

Fine. Since she failed to avoid the conversation, she simply followed him upstairs.

A plate of desserts and fruits were proffered before her. They were her favorites.

Despite their seldom meetups and his aloof attitude, he was aware of her likes.

Relax. It's just a casual talk. Ethan patted her hands. "You're too sensitive, Erina."

Erina sprang up from the couch, and her eyes were red. "Dad, is it about Dr.

Vanessa?"

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Even After Death Chapter 1366-Erina's fists rested beside her, and her cheeks were red.

Ethan raised his gaze onto her and pulled her. "Not entirely. I have a story to tell you."

Tears flowed down her cheeks. "What if I oppose your remarriage? It's true that you haven't been getting along with Mom all these years, but I heard that you've been alone the entire time. Can't you stay as you are right now?

Are you this desperate to build a new family with another person? I don't want that! I don't want you to have kids with another person. You can only be my father. Mine only!

Ethan stared right into her eyes. It had been a long time since they last met, but the obsession in her eyes was all too familiar.

She took after Marina so much.

Fortunately, he noticed it in time. It would've been a catastrophe if he had realized it later.

Erina, calm down.

No! Erina threw herself into his arms. Her tears showed no sign of stopping.

"Dad, Mom and I love you. Don't abandon us! Please! I know she's done wrong things, but she has received her punishment.

Do you know how she put up with the past few years? She was a renowned dancer. Now, she can only stay in a wheelchair."

I bet you loved her in the past, didn't you? We learned it in biology. That parents bear a new life with love. If you didn't love her, how could I even exist?

Ethan sighed while wiping off her tears. Gently, he cooed, "Erina, it's true that your father loved you and loved your mother very much. But I'm not your father."

Erina's eyes widened, radiating helplessness. "I don't get what you mean, Dad.

What do you mean that it's not you?"

He pulled her to his side so that she could take a seat beside him. "It's a long story…"

It was the story of Kurt, Ethan, Marina, and Olivia.

Nevertheless, Ethan glossed over the awful deeds Marina committed. He didn't want Erina to know how evil her mother was.

Erina gaped after hearing the story. It took her a while to find her voice. "So, you mean you're looking after us on behalf of my biological father? Because he saved you?"

Yes.

You've never loved my mother? And it was her who ruined your marriage and drove you and your wife apart?

Yes.

You're not our father?

Connor is Olivia's and my child. Marina and Olivia had a preterm delivery back then. Marina had twins. Unfortunately, your brother was dead as soon as he was born. Then, I replaced him with Connor due to some circumstances.

Erina, who barely stopped crying, couldn't fight back her tears again. "So, I'm not your daughter? Only me?"

Erina, listen, I owe your father a great favor. I'll take care of you forever. You can live under this name or change it if you want. I'll always see you as a goddaughter.

A god-daughter… Erina stared at that handsome face.

The father she had been proud of turned out to be a mere outsider.

Everything was finally falling back into place.

Why had Ethan never looked at Marina?

Why did he treat Erina well and yet never show up for her parent conferences?

Why was he so strict on Connor yet pampered her with so much love at the same time?

Those questions hanging in the air were finally answered—it was all because of that favor!

Liar! You're a liar! shouted Erina, unable to accept reality.

The powerful picture of a parental figure in her crumbled.

She turned and ran out of the door.

Erina, wait!' The tear-stricken girl stood in the heavy snow. Why didn't you just keep up with the lie forever? Why must you wake me up from my dream?"

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Even After Death Chapter 1367-Ethan rushed to grab Erina. "Erina, you're your father's pride. If he were still alive, he'd surely love you."

Erina wriggled so hard to break free from his grasp. Then, she slapped him.

Bastard! You're sorry to Mom, and you hurt your wife! I hate you, I hate you!

She ran away, and Brent followed. "Leave it to me, Mr. Miller."

One of Ethan's hands covered his cheek. It didn't hurt, but he couldn't help the overflowing sorrow.

Before this, he desperately wished to protect Kurt's family so much that he even brought his own family in harm's way.

In the end, Fabian repaid the favor the other way round and Marina lost everything.

Even Olivia, whom he vowed to protect, was marred with scars.

Gradually, his knees knelt to the ground.

Just how much of a failure his life was to fail to protect no one?

Kelvin patted Ethan's shoulder. "It's not your fault, Mr. Miller. There's no win-win in life. No one can own everything. Actually, you're doing the right thing."

Sitting on the mat, he began analyzing seriously. "Think about it. Ms. Erina is turning nine soon. She's mature enough. If you don't clear things up right now, the misunderstanding is bound to deepen as time passes.

"You've protected her from those awful rumors and accusations well enough.

Although you could've lied to her forever, we know what's best. You can't sustain the fairy tale for her forever.

You have children. What would they think when they see another kid call you 'Dad'? Telling Ms. Erina the whole truth is only a matter of time or it'll only serve as a path to destruction to her. The same goes for your children. When that happens, you won't be able to resolve either side."""

Kelvin voiced his opinion in the heat of the moment.

Realizing Ethan's gaze on him, Kelvin covered his mouth.

Kelvin let out a wry laugh. "Oops! A slip of the tongue. But I do have a point, don't I? You should lay out the truth when Ms. Erina is mature enough to take it.

It'll hurt at the moment, but that's better than suffering for a lifetime.

"If you didn't do so, what will she think of you when she sees you with Mrs.

Miller? Betrayer. A betrayer to his marriage and family. She's too sensitive.

That'll take a toll on her mentality in the long term.

You've done everyone a favor by telling her the truth today. Mrs. Miller won't get angry at you because of your hesitance anymore. And you'll be able to return to your children with your head held high."

"It's inevitable for Ms. Erina to be sad for now, but she'll understand your circumstances someday. Mr. Miller, do you know why things ended up that way for you and Mrs. Miller?

Most of the time, the problem was you. You could've done your part in communication better. How would Mrs. Miller know when you said nothing at all? Women's imaginations can be wild."

"If you had explained your relationship with Marina to Mrs. Miller from the start, things wouldn't have come this far. Don't you think so?

Honesty is the key to a long-lasting marriage. If you genuinely wish for Mrs."

Miller to change her mind regarding the remarriage, stop acting on your own,"

Kelvin reasoned.

Ethan raised his head, his gaze on Kelvin.

Kelvin slapped his hand over his mouth. "I… I was just spouting nonsense. Don't mind me."

For the first time ever, you sound like a normal person.

Kelvin's head buzzed with confusion.

Meanwhile, excitement and vehement emotions stirred in Marina. Her cheeks were red.

She watched Olivia get busy with the medicines. She then approached Marina with her face against the lights.

Suddenly, some of Marina's emotions gave way to uneasiness. For a brief moment, she thought she saw that familiar face again.

Impossible. Why would she show up here?

Right then, the sound of metal clicking resounded. There were handcuffs around the operating table, and they secured her limbs!

Dr. Vanessa, what's this for?

To prevent you from moving around. It was Olivia's original voice.

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Even After Death Chapter 1368-Goosebumps prickled Marina's arms as trepidation slowly ate her up. "I don't quite get what you mean. Are you not going to give me an anesthetic shot?"

Olivia smiled. "That's right."

Marina thought that she had played it off as a joke, but Olivia took it seriously!

Marina's features were stiff. "T-This has to be a joke. It's amputation! How could you not give me an anesthetic shot?"

Obeying her instincts, she moved around but to no avail. Her wrists were tightly fettered.

At the same time, Olivia had brought out the necessary tools.

After the car crash, Marina was given an anesthetic shot for the surgery, so she didn't know how the surgery was supposed to work.

Olivia played with a scalpel in her hand with clean moves. Instead of a doctor, she appeared more like a killer right now.

Who's joking? She chuckled in her original voice.

Despite the long years of absence, her voice was etched in Marina's head.

O-Olivia Fordham! Marina shook her head in disbelief, convincing herself that she was hearing things.

How could Vanessa be Olivia?

Then, Olivia pulled her mask down to reveal a pristine smile. "Bingo! You've just gained a free suture as a reward."

Marina yelled, "How could it be you? Where's Dr. Vanessa? Where did you hide her?"

To her dismay, the space was lined with thick soundproof material. Not even Fabian, who was just outside the room, could hear her.

The scalpel in Olivia's hand slowly reached Marina's face before it traced downward.

Marina Carlton, you've grown naive the past few years. Don't you know who I am at this point?

A possibility crossed Marian's mind. Her eyes widened. "You're Dr. Vanessa? No way! She's a famous doctor worldwide. You didn't even finish university. How…"

Standing beside the operating table, Olivia stared at Marina. "Move on from the past, Marina Carlton. It's been ten years since we first met. Do you think that men are all I think about? I'm different from you."

Only then did Marina realize something—be it ten years ago or now, she had never once thought of working hard.

She was born with a silver spoon in the Carlton family. Due to her love for dance from a young age, her family spent a lot of money to raise her as a famous dancer.

After that, she got pregnant and received news of Kurt's death.

On the day Ethan visited her place for compensation, her mind swirled in ecstasy. It took her less than a second to think of compensation—a marriage with Ethan.

Ethan gave it a thought for a few days before agreeing to it. She almost lost it due to excitement.

She quit her job and devoted her time to taking care of her health, looking forward to the day of the delivery.

On the other hand, Olivia was completely different.

The moment she divorced Ethan, she realized how grave her past mistake was.

Even if she was terminally ill, she didn't give up on learning. To add on, she even asked for favors from Calvin, Keith, and others to gather medical records from worldwide for learning purposes.

Once she recovered from cancer, she began to put her knowledge into practice.

Later on, thanks to Wendy, she was able to expand her expertise to traditional medicine.

Intelligent enough to assimilate her knowledge in modern and traditional medicine, she performed a few complicated surgeries and gained recognition worldwide.

No one knew what the future held for her.

Now, Marina's and Olivia's places were reversed.

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Even After Death Chapter 1369-Marina recalled something.

When a hefty sum of money was needed for Jeff's operation, a helpless Olivia had to pawn her wedding ring for the money. At that time, she happened to run into Marina, who was picking jewelry.

Olivia crouched to pick the ring up while Marina watched the forlorn sight as though it was an entertaining show.

In a blink of an eye, seven years had passed.

Now, the person standing high up there was Olivia.

You're Vanessa? Did you approach me for revenge? Marina lost the glow in her eyes. She had yet to realize the gravity of the situation.

Correct, replied Olivia softly. "This is an osteotome. It's specially structured for precise accuracy and efficiency during bone-cutting.

"This is a rongeur, to hold the bones in place for the cutting. It helps with accuracy and stability too.

And this is something you should know. A chainsaw."" Like a saleswoman, Olivia introduced the tools to Marina professionally."

We'll forgo the anesthesia. I'll cut your skin open and then your bones.

Marina broke in a cold sweat. "You can't do this to me, Olivia Fordham!"

Why not? Why can't I? I'm going to settle the score with you today once and for all. Olivia cut a line over Marina's skin. Blood oozed out the trace left by the sharp edge of the scalpel.

Marina yelped in pain.

Olivia tilted her head. "Does it hurt? But I was hurt too when I saw you standing next to Ethan with a round belly. You stole my husband, my clothes, my house, and my hospital. Forget about that, how could you push me off the ship back then?"

The operation was ongoing, and Olivia moved with quick movements. "My baby and I almost died in the sea. I was so sad for a long, long time."

The excruciating pain was burning Marina. Due to her recuperation, she could feel her legs now.

At that moment, she finally knew why Olivia would be so kind to treat her legs.

Olivia had been waiting for this day to come!

S-Stop!

Blood stained all over Olivia's gloves, so gory unlike her sweet smile. "Oh, and I did beg you to stop too."

That snowy night replayed in Marina's head.

Olivia, who noticed Marina's intention, hugged her belly and retreated backward.

S-Stay away from me.

Yet, there was an obsessive smile on Marina's face. "Give it a guess. If we jump into the sea at the same time, would Ethan save you or me?"

Stop playing childish games with me. Olivia simply wished to protect her baby.

Marina Carlton, stop right there! You're pregnant too!

However, Marina didn't give a fig about the lives in her belly because they were Kurt's. She already had an abortion in mind.

If she had not used them as leverage against Ethan, they would've been long gone.

Marina had everything in plan. Once she got married to Ethan, she would have as many kids as she wanted.

Her future was bright, unlike Olivia's. Marina's higher chance of winning gave her the confidence to gamble on her kids' lives.

The tear-stricken woman who once begged for mercy now stood before Marina but with a dazzling smile this time.

I told you to stop, but did you? Olivia spread her hands.

The blood dripped from the scalpel to the ground, and she didn't lose her smile.

Welcome to my world, Marina Carlton.

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Even After Death Chapter 1370-On the chopping board, Marina couldn't defend herself. Still, she was stubborn and insisted on surviving this. "Olivia Fordham, don't you forget that Ethan still owes me. If you hurt me, he's never gonna let you get away with it."

Olivia let out a low chuckle. "If so, do you think he would've led you all the way here himself?"

Marina was stunned. Ethan and Kurt grew up together. Could Ethan actually stay unbothered by Kurt's death?

"Bet you're thinking about that man whom Ethan owes his life to. Yes, he is indebted to that person, but what does that have to do with you? You were merely that person's crush. You weren't even a couple.

Let's say Ethan did give his word to look after you, did he not uphold his word well enough by sacrificing his marriage and family?"

"If I were you, I wouldn't have poured everything into a relationship for a man.

It's stupid. In the end, you gained nothing from it and his patience thinned. He resents you more than I do.

Why would he possibly protect you again? The only thing Kurt left behind was his daughter, Erina. Your well-being has nothing to do with Ethan. He went beyond the call of duty."""

Marina couldn't care less about the pain and huffed. "What do you mean that Erina is the only thing Kurt left behind?"

Oh, you still don't know the truth, mocked Olivia.

What are you implying? Marina gritted her teeth.

Olivia was aware that only cutting slowly would bring the greatest pain. "Marina, do you know why Connor wasn't willing to call you Mom since he was young?

Because when he could start remembering things, Ethan told him who his mother was. And that's me."

Marina's expression lost color as she couldn't believe her ears. "What did you just say…"

I'm saying, Connor is my son. We had preterm delivery that year. You had twins, but one of them passed away upon delivery. Ethan actually gave you my son due to some circumstances. The one who died was your son.

A scream pervaded through the air. Marina couldn't accept it. "No, Connor is my son."

Have you never suspected it? He takes after Ethan, but he and Erina look nothing alike. How could he possibly be your son?

Marina cried. Of course, she did suspect it.

However, considering that Ethan and Kurt were cousins, she assumed that it was plausible for Connor to look like Ethan.

Moreover, she never bore a shadow of doubt against Ethan. That was why she never thought about it.

Karma is always present. When you were hurting me, did you ever think about karma? I heard that your dead son weighed heavier than Erina. He grew so well —

Shut up, Olivia! Shut up! yelled Marina at the top of her lungs.

How could this be enough for Olivia?

Back then, Marina kept harassing Olivia with text messages—about Ethan having a meal at Marina's place, him brewing soup for her, and him spending the night there.

Those texts and pictures had Olivia spend those nights in tears.

While Olivia grieved over her baby, who was assumed dead, Marina and her children stood beside Ethan.

Marina's words hurt more than anything.

Do you even know what I did just to save him? In the end, you took his life with a lift of a finger. Do you know how painful life was to me?

The more she talked about it, the more strength she exerted in her moves.

Marina yelled so much that her voice turned hoarse. "Olivia, it was an accident.

He's my father too. I didn't know!"

"You're calling him your father? How dare you! Why aren't you the one who died, Marina Carlton? Dad was so excited to welcome my baby to the world. He made them toys, showing signs of being willing to live on! It's all because of you.

You!"

Calm down, Olivia!

Calm down? Dad was such a nice guy, but he's no longer here. How could you have the nerve to continue with life? Why aren't you the one who's dead?

God knew how crestfallen Olivia was back then. She was oblivious to Connor's true identity, terminally ill, and losing her only family.

On the other hand, Marina, the sinner, was still alive!

Grief clouded Olivia's features.

Jeff's death was something she could never get over. It'd be difficult for her to walk out of the shadow of the pain.

Whenever one bottled one's emotions for too long, one's reaction would be more vehement when those emotions came to the surface.

Cold sweat washed Marina from head to toe before she lost consciousness.

But minutes later, the pain pulled her back to consciousness again.

She didn't know what Olivia was up to. Was Olivia going to kill her? Or cripple her for life?

All she knew was that she kept pacing back and forth through death's door. It tasted like hell.

Now, Marina simply wished she could die for once and for all.

Seeing through Marina's thoughts, Olivia coldly snorted. "Wanna die? It won't be easy."

Olivia, I'm sorry for everything I've done to you. Just take my life. I'd rather choose death than get tortured.

Olivia scoffed. "I won't kill you. You're Dad's daughter, after all, the last of the bloodline. I'll make sure you live a long life. I want you to live every single day in repentance!"

What are you trying to do, Olivia? Horror devoured Marina whole.

Olivia had gone nuts!

You'll find out soon.

Olivia's gaze gave Marina dreadful chills, and Marina's hunch whispered warnings of a bleak future ahead of her.

Olivia Fordham, if you do anything to me, Fabian will never let this slide that easily! Despite her hatred for Fabian, he was the only person who could protect her.

Olivia giggled. "I know. Because he loves you, to an obsessive extent."

How do you know that?

When I first came to the Carlton residence to examine your legs, I could tell that he forced it on you. You should be grateful for your looks. They're the reason you're living a good life until now. First Kurt, and now Fabian, mocked Olivia.

She continued, "But you've underestimated his love for you. He's crazy about you. Why would he let you walk again?"

What do you mean?

"I forgot to tell you something. Yesterday, I made a deal with him. Fabian, he…

wishes for this surgery to fail."