Chapter 1
: Consumed by Flames Fire consumed the room, its voracious hunger devouring everything in its path. Ruby Perez crumbled to the ground, engulfed in a haze of smoke that strangled her breath. Coughs wracked her body, tears streaming down her ash-covered face. Despite the chaos and destruction, Ruby's natural beauty remained unspoiled, a delicate flower amidst the wreckage. Paralyzed and bewildered, Ruby couldn't fathom how she had ended up in this dire situation. The drug coursing through her veins robbed her of control, rendering her helpless. Approaching her, Jade Perez emerged from the smoke, donning a gas mask. Dressed in an innocent white gown, she appeared like a cherubic child. But Ruby knew better, or so she thought. "Oh Ruby, you look positively disastrous," Jade remarked, her voice gentle yet laced with a sinister undertone. Ruby's expression twisted in shock and disbelief. "Did you drug me, Jade?" she questioned, her voice trembling. Jade's sly grin slipped through as she removed her gas mask. "It's merely a test, dear Ruby," she replied. "I want to see who our family will believe when they witness this." With deliberate intent, Jade pressed the gas mask onto Ruby's face, smearing ash on her own cheeks. From her pocket, she produced a small knife, slicing open her arm, blood gushing forth. Discarding the knife, Jade discarded her gloves, slipping them onto Ruby's paralyzed hands. She clutched her wounded arm, unleashing a piercing scream, a facade of terror etched upon her features. "Help! Daddy, Mommy! Help me! Janie has gone mad!" Jade's voice echoed through the room. "Maddie!" a man's cry pierced the chaos as he kicked open the door. Ruby's heart sank as her parents and seven brothers rushed to Jade's side. She could only watch, horror gripping her soul."Daddy, Mommy! The pain in my wound is unbearable," Jade screamed, her voice filled with agony. "Janie is insane! She started the fire out of nowhere and said she wanted to die with me. Then she cut me with a knife and told me I wasn't good enough to be a Fowler daughter!" Case Perez's eyes widened as he took in the sight of Jade's bloodied body and her terrified, deer-like eyes. He glanced over at Ruby, lying on the floor with a knife and gloves stained with crimson. Without hesitation, Case delivered a harsh kick to Ruby's stomach, his voice filled with anger. "I can't believe I have a daughter who would do something so vicious!" The force of the kick twisted Ruby's insides, but the pain in her heart far surpassed any physical agony she felt. It was as if her heart was being torn in two. Ruby had once taken a bullet for Case. They were together at a business event when a psychopath barged in, armed with a gun, intent on killing Case. In a selfless act of bravery, Ruby had stepped in front of Case, taking the bullet while he and Jade escaped. The police rushed Ruby to the hospital, where she fought for her life in intensive care. Miraculously, she survived her wounds. Days passed before the Perezs finally came to visit Ruby in the hospital. Case took an hour away from Jade to see her. He felt ashamed and could only muster a few words, but he did explain that Jade was adopted and hoped Ruby would accept her. Jade had always feared that the family's love and attention would shift once they found their biological daughter. Just moments after Case's visit, Jade called, claiming she had an emergency. The Perezs hastily left Ruby in the ward, rushing to Jade's side. To those unaware of their family history, it would seem that Jade was their biological daughter and Ruby was the adopted one.Ruby's faith in her father, Case, was unwavering. Despite the doubts that lingered in her mind, she clung to the belief that blood ties held more weight than anything else. She longed for acceptance, for the Flowers to embrace her as their own. Jade, aware of Ruby's desperation, took advantage of her sister's willingness to please. No matter what Jade desired, Ruby would always acquiesce. It became a pattern, an unspoken agreement between them. Jade would claim the best gifts, leaving Ruby with the scraps. In her heart, Ruby hoped that her selflessness would touch the Perezs, that they would finally see her as a true daughter. But it was all in vain. When disaster struck and fire consumed their surroundings, Ruby found herself abandoned, left behind like a discarded object. The flames licked at her skin, the pain searing through her senses. The acrid scent of burning filled her nostrils as tears welled up in her eyes. She closed them, releasing a heavy sigh. In that moment, she embraced the idea of an end, grateful that everything was coming to a close. She had paid her dues to the Perez family, her obsession with familial love finally relinquished. If there was a next life, Ruby fervently wished to never cross paths with these heartless people again. As news of the warehouse fire spread, the local media reported on the tragic event. Only one burned body was recovered from the wreckage, but it vanished mysteriously soon after arriving at the hospital for examination. The following day, the Perez Corporation made a public statement, severing all ties with Ruby Perez, the long-lost biological daughter they had recently discovered. They acknowledged only Jade as their legitimate child, casting Ruby aside without a second thought. Ruby's name became the subject of gossip, spreading like wildfire. The revelation of the Perez family's search for their true daughter captivated the public's attention. But as time passed and new stories emerged, Ruby's existence faded into obscurity once more.
Chapter 2
Ruby gazed into the mirror, her mind in a haze as she absorbed the fact that her reflection appeared five years younger. There was a certain naivety and inexperience in her features, but it couldn't mask the promise of beauty that lay ahead. "I... I've been given a second chance?" She whispered to herself, her voice barely audible. Glancing at her phone, Ruby discovered it was October 23rd, 2030. Exactly five years before the devastating fire that had claimed her life. It had been less than a month since she had been brought back into the Perez family. A bitter laugh escaped her lips. "Is this some divine intervention, telling me I was foolish in my past life and now granting me a do-over?" Regardless of the reasons behind her resurrection, Ruby knew one thing for certain. This time, she wouldn't be the person who constantly sought validation and tried to please everyone. She would live for herself and no one else. She understood that this was an extraordinary opportunity to make amends for her past mistakes and liberate herself from the shackles of regret. Taking in her surroundings, the room felt both familiar and foreign. With newfound determination, Ruby discarded her pajamas and adorned herself in a white t-shirt, faded jeans, and a stylish yet edgy haircut that perfectly complemented her short crop. One last glance in the mirror confirmed that she was ready to embrace this new life. When she had arrived at the Perez home, she had only brought a small suitcase. But her dreams of a better future, reuniting with her birth family, and finding a sense of belonging were unwavering. Now, standing at the door of her "home," a place that was technically hers, Ruby couldn't ignore the intense pain that resided within these walls. However, this time around, she was determined to swiftly overcome her demons and forge ahead with her life in this house. Just as she had become lost in her melancholic thoughts, a loud knock on the door startled Ruby back to the present moment. Knock, knock... Suppressing the sorrow that threatened to consume her, an icy resolve settled over Ruby's expression.She pushed open the door, her heart pounding in her chest. Standing before her was Mason Perez, her big brother and the seventh son of their prestigious family. Tall and handsome, he exuded an air of superiority, dressed impeccably in designer clothes. But there was a scowl on his face as he looked at her. "Ruby, mom and dad want you downstairs," he said, his voice tinged with annoyance. Ruby, a student at the esteemed University of Oricle in Stormton City, glanced at him indifferently. She had grown distant, no longer seeking the approval of her family like she used to. Her indifference surprised Mason, who remembered the Ruby who would do anything to be close to their parents, even sacrificing her own dignity. But now, Ruby's submissive attitude disgusted him. He had made up his mind - he only had one sister, and her name was Jade. With Jade by his side since childhood, he cherished her, adored her gentle and kind nature. Mason didn't want a biological sister anymore; all he wanted was Jade. "Ruby, you know what you did. Just go downstairs and take your punishment," he sneered before turning away. Ruby's lips twitched, a flicker of determination in her eyes. Memories flooded her mind, reminding her of what had transpired earlier that day. It was time to set things right. With her hands in her pockets, Ruby descended the grand staircase of their mansion. The sound of sobbing reached her ears, growing louder as she approached the living room. There, she found her parents, Case and Zephyra, holding their inconsolable baby daughter, Jade. It felt as though the roles had reversed - now Jade was the cherished biological daughter, and Ruby was the one who felt like the adopted child.Ruby's heart ached, a familiar twinge that seemed to echo with the weight of her desires. For so long, she had hidden her true nature, suppressing her intelligence and concealing her essence from the world. All for the sake of this hard-earned familial bond she had forged. There was a time when she couldn't fathom giving it up, not even in a reincarnation. But now, a growing realization crept into her consciousness. She couldn't afford to make the same mistake again. As she observed Case and Zephyra, a detachment settled over Ruby, as if she were merely a spectator, watching a captivating performance unfold before her. In fact, she almost felt compelled to rise from her seat and applaud their act. Yet, amidst the applause that echoed in her mind, there lingered one glaring issue. Ruby realized that the feelings she once held for them, the love she had for her biological parents, had dwindled to nearly nothing. Mason descended the stairs, his eyes falling upon Ruby's expression. Instantly, anger flared within him. "Why don't you ask your sister why she's crying, Ruby?" he demanded. "I didn't make her cry. Why should I ask?" Ruby's voice lacked any trace of emotion, her words delivered with an icy detachment. "Hey! Don't you dare speak to Dad like that!" Mason shouted, his tone laced with fury. The desire to teach Ruby a lesson surged through him, but as he observed her lack of remorse, her determination to distance herself from the turmoil, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of betrayal. How could his own sister be so calculating, so cruel? In Mason's eyes, Jade would forever be the only sister he acknowledged. He secretly yearned for Ruby's demise, hoping that Jade would be spared from enduring any more suffering. Ruby's expression remained unchanged as she met Mason's menacing gaze. She could feel the waves of hatred emanating from him, as if he wished she would vanish from existence, allowing Jade to finally have what she truly desired. Once, Ruby would have been consumed by the pain in her brother's eyes, questioning her own worth and desperately seeking answers for his disdain. For nineteen long years, she had wandered without a place to call home, devoid of the warmth of a family's embrace. And yet, she had persevered.In Ruby's mind, the fact that the Perezs had chosen to adopt Jade didn't stir any envy within her. Instead, she embraced Jade as her own sister, genuinely concerned for her well-being. Selflessness was ingrained in Ruby's character, always prioritizing Jade's needs above her own. She never sought recognition or glory for herself, content with supporting Jade from the shadows. Ruby had sacrificed so much for the sake of this so-called "family." And yet, it was never her intention to steal Jade's spotlight. All she longed for was a moment of acknowledgment, even if fleeting, from her own flesh and blood. Every single second of Ruby's life was dedicated to serving the whims of her supposed loved ones. But their gratitude remained perpetually unsatisfied. From the Perezs' perspective, Jade held the utmost importance within the family dynamic. Ruby, on the other hand, was seen as an afterthought, perhaps even a burden. They secretly harbored a dark wish for Ruby's demise, believing that her presence had disrupted their happiness. Their decision to take Ruby back into their lives was driven by a desire to alleviate their guilt, to rectify their failure in recognizing her worth. Although Ruby was fully aware of their true intentions, she had reached a point where their opinions no longer held any weight in her heart. The heated argument between Mason and Ruby caught Case's attention. "Zephyra, take care of Maddie," Case instructed with a deep frown etched across his face. He rose from his seat, determination emanating from his every step as he approached Ruby. "On your knees, Ruby Perez!" Case's voice thundered through the room, resonating in Ruby's mind like a foreboding death knell. His command was laced with anger and intensity. Meanwhile, Mason stood nearby, arms crossed and a sneer of satisfaction playing on his lips. He relished the prospect of seeing Ruby finally face the consequences of making Jade cry. In the past, the mere sight of Case's anger would have sent the old Ruby trembling to her knees in fear. But this time, things were different. "Why should I kneel?" Ruby calmly retorted, meeting Case's gaze head-on. Her eyes remained steady and composed, a stark contrast to Case's fury. In that moment, Ruby exuded an unexplainable power, as if she were the one with seniority within the family.
Chapter 3
Case's mind reeled as he processed Ruby's defiant words. The audacity of her question left him speechless, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He couldn't fathom why she would challenge him like this, questioning his authority and threatening to expose his dark intentions. Mason, too, was taken aback, his eyes widening in surprise. Ruby remained composed, her expression calm and collected. But beneath that facade, a fire burned within her. She no longer felt anger towards the Perez family; instead, apathy had settled in her heart. She had grown indifferent to their actions, no longer caring about their opinions or the pain they inflicted upon her. In this moment, memories of her past life flooded back to Ruby's mind. She remembered the fear that had consumed her when she had obeyed Case's command to kneel. She had desperately tried to defend herself against false accusations, but her pleas fell on deaf ears. And when Mason had seen Jade sobbing, his temper had flared, leading him to deliver a harsh slap to Ruby's face. Back then, Ruby had apologized out of fear, afraid that her family would be angry with her. She had endured the weight of false accusations, sacrificing her dignity for their sake. But now, as she stood before them, she couldn't help but question her past self's choices. Why had she allowed herself to live a life devoid of dignity? The realization fueled Ruby's anger, directing it towards her old self. She refused to be a doormat any longer, allowing others to trample over her without consequence. This newfound strength coursed through her veins, empowering her to stand up against Case's tyranny. Case, seething with fury, prepared to strike Ruby, his hand raised menacingly. But before he could carry out his violent act, Jade's voice shattered the tension. "Dad, don't!" she cried, her words ringing out with desperation and fear. Case froze, his hand suspended in mid-air. Zephyra's eyes widened in shock as she looked at Jade, unable to comprehend what was happening. The young girl's voice cracked with emotion as she pleaded with her father, her sobs making it difficult for her to speak. "Don't hit Janie, Dad, please... She's your biological daughter anyway!" Those words struck a chord within Case, momentarily snapping him back to reality. He gazed at Ruby with a mixture of contemplation and recognition. Despite his reluctance to acknowledge it, the woman standing before him shared his blood.Little did Case know when he brought Ruby home that she would turn out to be such a cunning little devil. Zephyra, Ruby's biological mother, couldn't bear to see Jade in such distress and finally spoke up, urging Case to talk things out instead of resorting to violence. Mason, on the other hand, couldn't understand why Jade was still trying to protect Ruby when she was clearly upset. "Maddie is just too kind to her," he muttered to himself, perplexed by their sister's loyalty. Watching Jade endure the pain without complaint tore at Case's heart, as if it were being ripped in two. He desperately wished that Jade was their real sister instead of Ruby, feeling the unfairness of the situation weighing heavily on him. Taking a few deep breaths, Case tried to quell the fire burning in his chest. He mustered all his calmness and asked Ruby, "Do you even realize what you've done wrong?" Her answer came without hesitation, simple and direct, "No, I don't." The room fell into stunned silence, everyone taken aback by Ruby's response. It was a stark contrast to her previous timid and people-pleasing demeanor. She seemed transformed, confident, and unafraid. Case couldn't believe his ears. "You didn't just say that," he exclaimed in shock, his eyes widening. Ruby repeated her answer deliberately, as if to make sure there was no mistake. The more Case pressed her, the more she defiantly held her ground, always responding with a resolute "no." Her eyes, once warm and innocent, now appeared dark and icy, fixed on Case with an intensity that sent a shiver down his spine. This was a look he had never seen before, one that made him question everything he thought he knew about Ruby. As the former Emeritus Chairman of the Perez Corporation, Case had encountered a wide array of individuals in his long and successful career. But none had ever unsettled him quite like Ruby. Now retired, Case had handed over the reins of the family business to his grown children. Despite his age, his sharp business acumen and keen eye for detail remained intact. But this new challenge, this transformation of Ruby, tested his abilities in ways he could never have anticipated."Daddy, Mommy, please, enough!" Jade's desperate cry pierced the air as she rushed to Ruby's side. Case's voice erupted with urgency, "Stay away from her, Maddie!" He looked at Jade anxiously, his worry for her safety evident. A flicker of discomfort passed through Ruby's chest, but she swiftly pushed it aside. She had finally accepted her family's reality and made peace with their lack of approval. The pain no longer held power over her, and she was confident that the wounds on her heart would heal in due time. Jade's voice trembled as she spoke, "Janie, I know the truth now. You're the real Perez daughter. You pretended to be a distant relative to spare my feelings, and for that, I apologize." Tears streamed down Jade's face, her words weighed with sorrow. Ruby's heart softened, but she remained silent, allowing Jade to express her emotions. Zephyra, standing behind Jade, wiped away her own tears and spoke firmly, "No one has the right to make you leave. Ruby may be my biological daughter, but she could never do that." Case's voice joined in, filled with unwavering love, "Blood ties will never change how we feel about each other. No matter what happens, my daughter, you will always be the heiress of the Perez family." "Daddy..." Jade's sobs intensified as she sought solace in Case's arms, her fear consuming her. "Shh, it's alright. I'm here, and no one can harm you," Case reassured her, his voice gentle yet resolute. As Jade clung to her father, Case's gaze turned stern, his suspicions towards Ruby ignited by a single tear. The flames of fury burned within him, fueled by a deep-rooted concern for Jade's well-being. Meanwhile, Ruby stood there, an enigmatic figure in the midst of the family drama. Unperturbed and detached, she wore a smile that hinted at secrets and untold stories, as if she were merely an observer in her own life."Ruby, have you no heart? Isn't there even a sliver of remorse within you to apologize to Jade after witnessing this?" Mason couldn't bear it any longer and interjected, his gaze burning with anger directed at Ruby. A scoff threatened to escape Ruby's lips as her eyes met Mason's. There was an unmistakable irony in her gaze, silently judging him from head to toe. No words were exchanged, but Mason understood the condescending judgment she held for him. He felt a wave of shame wash over him, his sister, whom he had never acknowledged and secretly wished away, had managed to embarrass him in front of everyone. Fueled by a surge of rage, he reached for his phone and swiftly opened the day's most popular trend. Without hesitation, he thrust the device into Ruby's hands, his voice booming, "Look at what you've caused! Don't play the victim now!" As Ruby's eyes scanned the screen, the top trending topic came into view: "The True Perez Heiress Exposed." While Mason clicked on the link, Ruby absorbed more information about this current sensation. Rumors swirled that she had been snatched from the hospital shortly after her birth, only to resurface nineteen years later. The Perez Company had recently acknowledged her as their own. Pictures of Ruby entering and exiting the Perez residence, attending college, and participating in family events flooded the internet. The second trending topic focused on Jade: "Jade Perez's Future Life." The comments section beneath these topics was a chaotic mess, filled with people expressing their opinions. "Real heiress versus fake heiress? This is going to be one hell of a show." "The drama of a wealthy family unfolding before our eyes." "Unbelievable! The Perez Corporation's stocks have risen because of this revelation. Can you believe it?" "Jade has always been treated like a princess by the Perez family, always at their parties. It's no wonder she's their favorite." "But looking at these photos, the true heiress they found isn't too shabby either. She's quite beautiful." "Yet her demeanor seems far worse than Jade's. After all, she's been out there in the world for many years, and her upbringing can't be easily fixed." Ruby maintained an expressionless face as she looked at the phone, her voice devoid of emotion as she asked Mason, "What are you trying to prove?"
Chapter 4
: The Innocent and Kind Jade Mason's anger reached its boiling point, his finger pointed accusingly at Ruby's nose. "Do you not feel any guilt?" he scolded. "We had an agreement, Ruby," Mason continued, his voice laced with disappointment. "You were supposed to reveal your true identity at the right moment, without causing any harm to Jade. You promised!" "But instead," Mason's voice grew colder, "you've been dishonest. You willingly exposed your identity to those gossip magazines, sending them pictures. We've investigated everything!" Mason stared at Ruby as if she were his bitterest enemy, rather than the long-lost sister in need of their care. "Ruby," Case interjected, his tone icy as he fixed his gaze on her, "if you apologize to Jade right now, on your knees, I might consider forgiving you this time. After all, you've been lost for so many years, missing out on the upbringing of our Perez family. You can stay with us and be our true heiress." Case expected Ruby to panic, to lose control, but instead, she responded calmly. "Oh? Where is the evidence?" "Evidence?" Case asked, confusion etched into his face. "You can't simply claim that I revealed my identity to a gossip magazine, can you?" Ruby's voice remained steady. "If you can't back up your accusations with proof, I can sue you for slander." Ruby's composed and casual response left Case and the others dumbfounded. They couldn't believe that Ruby, known for her timidity, had just threatened to take legal action against them. Even Jade, who had been sobbing and clinging to Case, discreetly glanced at Ruby. Her perception of Ruby had shifted entirely. Though Ruby appeared the same on the surface, there was an undeniable air of composure and self-assurance about her. Ruby exuded a disinterested nobility that set her apart from everyone else in the room. Jade couldn't quite understand how or why, but a sense of panic began to creep into her heart. Quickly, Jade pushed the feeling aside, reminding herself that their plan was foolproof. There was nothing to worry about.Keeping her head down, she concealed the storm of thoughts swirling within her mind. Case's accusation hung heavy in the air, demanding undeniable proof. Without hesitation, he withdrew his cell phone and dialed a number, the sound reverberating through the room. Placing the phone on speaker, he slammed it down on the table. A voice, respectful and reverent, answered on the other end. "Mr. Perez." "Mr. Richard Goode," Case began, determination lacing his words. "Tell me, who is your source of this news?" "Mr. Perez... Haven't we discussed this? It was Miss Ruby Perez who provided me with the information," Richard replied. As Richard's words settled, all eyes shifted towards Ruby, anticipation filling the room. It seemed that this mountain of evidence would leave her no choice but to concede. Yet, contrary to their expectations, Ruby remained composed. Taking hold of Case's phone, she opened an application and adjusted the volume. "You claim it was me who gave you this information, correct?" Ruby inquired, her voice masked by a filter, its tone softer and lighter than usual. Everyone recognized Ruby's distinctive voice, and the one emanating from the app did not match. Furrowed brows and puzzled expressions filled the room, including Case's. They couldn't help but wonder what game Ruby was playing this time. Jade, sensing that something had gone awry, fought the urge to speak. She knew that any words or expressions could inadvertently reveal her guilt. Richard stumbled over his words, desperation tainting his voice. "Miss Ruby Perez, it's not my fault. Who could have anticipated Mr. Perez's swift discovery?" "We must protect our company," Richard continued, his voice trembling. "If we continue to provoke the Perez Corporation, our progress in Stormton City will be irreparably hindered." At this point, Case and the others had caught on that something was amiss. Ruby's mocking tone cut through the tension. "So, tell me, how did I first contact you? And why would I be foolish enough to expose my true identity?""Why now?" Ruby questioned, her voice laced with curiosity. "You knew the power of Perez Corporation all along. So why reveal everything at this moment? Don't you fear the consequences?" Richard hesitated on the other end of the line, his response cautious but swift. "You contacted me from a public phone. I recognized your voice, so I had no doubt it was you." Ruby couldn't help but laugh. "You recognized my voice? So you have no solid evidence to prove that I contacted you or exposed anything, do you?" Richard faltered, realizing his mistake. He cursed himself silently, berating his own stupidity for responding the way he did. After regaining his composure and pondering for a moment, Richard finally replied, "I've heard your voice before, and it's unique. Even when you tried to imitate someone else's accent, I knew it was you. And during our face-to-face meeting, you handed me some photos." Ruby immediately pointed out the flaw in Richard's reasoning. "How can you accuse someone based solely on their voice? Isn't that ridiculous? And as for our meeting and the photos, do you have any evidence? Surveillance footage? Photographs? Audio recordings?" Richard stammered, feeling a bead of sweat forming on his forehead. He had none of those things. It was all a setup to frame Ruby. "And one more thing," Ruby added, her tone sly. "The voice I used on the phone wasn't even mine. It was a voice changer app. So, tell me, if you saw me in person, how could you not realize that my voice was different?" "You're not suggesting that I witnessed you using a voice changer app, are you?" Ruby smirked. In truth, she had the ability to change her voice naturally, but the app helped expose the setup more effectively. With her newfound knowledge of future events, Ruby felt invincible. She could shield herself from her family's influence and manipulate the unfolding events to her advantage. She was unbeatable.It seemed as though God had bestowed upon Ruby an unexpected gift in the form of the present situation. Richard, on the other hand, found himself utterly speechless, as this turn of events was far from what he had been led to believe. According to his sources, Ruby was a meek and submissive individual, always striving to please others, and easily manipulated. With just a hint of intimidation, she would crumble, begging for forgiveness and shouldering the blame for everything. Never in his wildest dreams did Richard anticipate Ruby's call, questioning him with such boldness. The man who had assured Richard that Ruby would never make a fuss and that their plan was foolproof now seemed like a charlatan. The consequences of any misstep in this situation were dire; Richard's career and life would be left in ruins. Jade's heart skipped a beat, unable to comprehend how Richard could so carelessly expose their scheme. She couldn't help but wonder how someone as foolish as Richard had managed to secure his position and rise to leadership within his agency. Though Case and the others had their doubts about Ruby, sensing that something was amiss, they struggled to place their trust in her. "Mr. Goode, what exactly is happening here? Weren't you the one claiming that Ruby forced you into this?" Case demanded, his voice strained with anger. "Mr. Perez, I believe there has been a grave misunderstanding... Someone must have impersonated Miss Ruby Perez and set me up," Richard stammered, desperately attempting to salvage his own reputation. Richard frantically searched for a way to protect himself, racking his brain for a solution. He had no clue as to the identity of the mastermind behind it all, but the reward they had offered was too enticing for him to resist. However, Richard had a sneaking suspicion as to who might be behind the social media frenzy surrounding the saga of the fake and real heiress of the Perez family. Yet, uttering that person's name would undoubtedly be his downfall. "I will uncover the truth behind this," Case declared firmly, his gaze shifting towards Jade. Jade lowered her head, her body trembling with sobs as soft cries escaped her lips. Her appearance was so pitiful that it stirred an urge within Case to embrace her, to offer solace in her moment of despair. But he quickly shook his head, reasoning that Jade must be innocent in all of this. She possessed a kind and naive nature, incapable of devising such a malicious plan.
Chapter 5
: The Unveiling The aftermath of the phone call left a peculiar atmosphere hanging in the air. Case, Zephyra, and Mason wore expressions of profound embarrassment, their faces etched with guilt. They had falsely accused Ruby, and now they were forced to confront the consequences of their actions. As they reflected on Richard's words, doubts began to creep into their minds. The evidence they had against Ruby was flimsy at best, yet they had used it to construct a damning accusation. It was their unwavering mistrust of Ruby and their overwhelming favoritism towards Jade that had fueled this entire debacle. Every time they witnessed Jade's sadness, their emotions spiraled out of control, clouding their judgment. "Janie, I'm so sorry. Daddy and the others lost their composure when they saw how upset I was. This is all my fault. If only I had never become part of this family!" Jade's voice trembled as she broke the silence, tears streaming down her face. She walked towards Ruby, her intention clear - she was going to kneel before her. "Maddie, what on earth are you doing?" Mason's voice rang out urgently as he rushed forward to pull Jade up from the ground. But Jade remained resolute, kneeling before Ruby with determination. "Mason, I have to do this. It's my responsibility, and I won't get up until Jannie forgives us!" With a muted thud, Jade's knees hit the floor, her tears continuing to flow. "Maddie, get up this instant!" Case's voice pleaded, his urgency evident. Both Case and Zephyra hurried to Jade's side, their hearts moved by her display of filial devotion. In that moment, any lingering doubts about Jade evaporated into thin air. They realized that someone as kind-hearted and selfless as Jade could never concoct such a malicious plan. Their conviction grew stronger - the mastermind behind this scheme had to be someone else. "Ruby, we owe you an apology. Don't worry. I will uncover the truth and make sure those responsible face the consequences of their actions.The audacity of their attempt to harm my family is unfathomable!" Case seethed, his anger bubbling at the mere thought of someone scheming to sow discord within their ranks. "Anyone who dares besmirch the name of the Perez family shall face the wrath of my vengeance," he added through clenched teeth. This brand of treachery was utterly intolerable to Case. Above all else, Case held the preservation of harmony within his family as his utmost priority. "An apology owed to me?" Ruby burst into laughter, as if she had just heard the most absurd joke in the history of the world. Her laughter grew uncontrollable, tears streaming down her face, her belly aching from the sheer hilarity of it all. Confusion etched across Case's furrowed brows as he questioned, "Why are you laughing?" Ruby continued to laugh, unable to contain herself, for what Case had said struck her as the grandest jest she had ever encountered. Instead of standing up for his own flesh and blood, Case had chosen to side with the foster child. He had rallied his entire family against Ruby, fearing that she would return and snatch away everything that rightfully belonged to Jade. This prejudice had tainted Case's perception, leading him to make baseless accusations against Ruby on almost every front. Given a father like him, Ruby certainly didn't hold any expectation of receiving an apology. The old Ruby, naive and trusting, might have clung to the notion of familial love, but the new Ruby was no fool, blinded by the ties of blood. "Mr. Perez, I highly doubt your sincerity in offering any form of apology. Furthermore, you are too old and oblivious to even fathom uncovering the mastermind behind all this," Ruby spoke these cutting words without an ounce of remorse. Rather, she felt an overwhelming sense of liberation, finally releasing the pent-up emotions she had suppressed for far too long. Ruby recalled the moment she took a bullet for Case, only to be left abandoned in the hospital, fighting for her life as she struggled to recover. She remembered the years of neglect she endured at the hands of this family. And she couldn't forget the final blow that sent her spiraling down, as the flames raged on without mercy.Ruby's heart was heavy with grudges and resentments, fueling a vengeful satisfaction within her. But it wasn't enough. No one could have anticipated the way she would express herself. Her actions sent shockwaves through everyone, even Mason, who questioned if Ruby had completely lost her sanity. Gone was her meekness and timidity, replaced by a brazenness that went so far as to mock Case's declining eyesight. Case growled, his voice laced with disbelief, "What did you just say? I'm your father! How dare you speak to me like that!" "I admit I made a mistake, but I promised to apologize," Ruby replied defiantly. "What gives you the right to treat me with such disrespect?" Case had always been afraid of his wife, but never of anyone else. His children had always been obedient in his presence. Now, Ruby's actions threatened his authority as the head of the family, pushing him into unfamiliar territory. "Ruby, I don't care what you have to say. Case will always be your father. Apologize to him now!" Zephyra's expression turned icy as she spoke. For years, Zephyra had carried a sense of guilt regarding Ruby, but now she saw her as nothing more than a disobedient daughter. The daughter she had given birth to, who had wandered for 19 years, had revealed herself to be disrespectful and rude. The Perezs couldn't fathom having such a character as their daughter. "My father? It's repulsive to have a father like him. I won't apologize, and I don't want your apologies either," Ruby declared, her eyes gleaming with determination. She spoke those words without hesitation or pause, feeling a newfound freedom coursing through her veins. Finally, she had found the courage to speak her truth. Speaking out against the Perez family wasn't as difficult for Ruby as one might think. In the past, she had been trapped by her own attachment to family ties, unable to make a decision. But now, she had let go of her worries and made a firm choice. She didn't want a family like this. It was time to set clear boundaries."Ruby!" Case's voice reverberated through the room, his fury palpable as he trembled with anger. In that moment, he longed to strike Ruby across the face, but a wave of guilt held him back. Accusing her falsely earlier haunted him, clouding his judgment. How could he have a daughter so petty and narrow-minded? It was a profound disappointment, a stain on his pride. Jade, always the manipulator, tried to sway the situation. "Janie, I understand your anger. But blame me alone, not Daddy and Mommy. If it would ease your pain, I would kneel before you. I'll disappear from the Perezs' lives, relinquish my role as their daughter. Then, you won't have to be at odds with our parents anymore." Ruby's smirk danced upon her lips as she locked eyes with Jade. "Fine," she replied, her tone dripping with satisfaction. "You leave the Perez family, and I'll forgive and forget. You suggested it yourself, after all." Jade stood there, stunned and speechless. Could it be that Ruby had truly agreed? A surge of pleasure washed over Jade as she realized this would only deepen Case's disdain for Ruby. But beneath her joy, doubt lingered. Had Ruby lost her mind? Yet, with a trembling facade of emotional scars, Jade wiped her teary eyes and managed to utter, "I... I understand, Jannie. It's time for me to go. Once I'm gone, the Perezs can find peace again. If that's what you want, I'll do it." With those words, Jade hurriedly ascended the stairs, her sobs echoing through the house. Zephyra rushed to comfort her, enveloping Jade in a comforting embrace. "Maddie, don't be sad. Ruby is just upset. We won't let anyone force you to leave." "Mom... Let me go. This is no longer my home. Jannie is the true heiress of the Perez family, and I'm nothing more than a foster daughter..." Jade's words trembled with grief as she clung to Zephyra. Each word that escaped Jade's lips pierced the hearts of the Perez family like sharp nails. Their pain was unbearable, their hearts on the verge of shattering under the weight of Jade's sorrow."Ruby! How dare you utter such venomous words to Maddie!" Mason's voice thundered through the room. Learning that Ruby intended to cast Jade out, Mason's composure shattered into a million pieces. He roared, "Ruby, you have finally revealed your true nature! You can't bear the thought of anyone challenging your claim to the Perez family's affections. You want nothing more than to banish Maddie and become the sole heiress!" "But I won't allow it! Maddie will always be a part of the Perez family, and I will stand by her as her brother, no matter what!" Mason positioned himself in front of Jade, shielding her from Ruby's wrath. His eyes blazed with fury as he leveled a stern gaze at Ruby. Ruby, for the first time in her life, couldn't stand the reflection she saw in Mason's face, so similar to her own. A suffocating sensation overwhelmed Ruby, and the very thought of the Perez family blood coursing through her veins made her nauseous. This was her chance for a fresh start, and Ruby was determined not to waste it. With a cold sneer, she uttered, "Yes, she is your sister, and I am... nothing. "I am merely a pawn for all of you to manipulate, a thorn lodged in your hearts for nineteen long years. "If you don't pay close attention, you wouldn't even feel it. Welcoming me back into the Perez family is just a means to finally pluck out that tiny thorn. "In the end, I am nothing." As each word left Ruby's lips, her heart throbbed with pain. Gradually, her emotions subsided, leaving behind a sense of relief. The truths she spoke were ones she had never before mustered the courage to acknowledge, but deep down, she knew they were real. By giving voice to these truths, she exposed a raw, bloody, and simmering part of her heart that had remained hidden for far too long. Having never truly belonged to the family, Ruby expected mockery when she spoke up. Case raised his hand and said, "I understand that you're hurting and angry right now, but Maddie is innocent. You must return to your room and reflect on how offensive and inappropriate your behavior was just now."
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