Three Days of Drowning in the Sea

On the eve of our families' arranged marriage, the Thorntons were framed and went bankrupt. Mandy, unwilling to endure hardship, eloped with her mother's help.

After I married Isaac in her place, I helped him rebuild his empire, taking his business to even greater heights. His eyes gradually turned to me, but then Mandy returned.

Her return meant my defeat, a complete and utter loss. No matter what I did, he only saw jealousy and malice in me. Ultimately, he never loved me.

That night, they lay in the same hospital bed, Isaac holding Mandy, both sleeping soundly. I could only watch, unable to leave, sitting by their bed until dawn.

The next day, Isaac was woken by a phone call. "Mr. Thornton, Liam said you ordered him to release Mrs. Thornton."

Isaac instantly woke up. "I didn't. Stop him. I'm coming."

After Isaac left, Mandy opened her eyes. "Nicole, a dead woman. Let's see how you'll compete with me!"

How did she know I was dead? Was the guard...?

Before I could think, a powerful force pulled me out, forcing me to follow Isaac into his car. We arrived at the beach.

Liam was restrained, unable to move. He shouted, "Mr. Thornton, please release Mrs. Thornton! It's been two days and nights; she'll die!"

Isaac approached Liam, a mocking smile on his lips. "Liam, why are you so concerned about Nicole, even disobeying my orders?"

Liam said, "Mr. Thornton, Mrs. Thornton worked alongside you, lived at the company, even drank herself to a stomach ulcer for your orders. Have you forgotten?"

Liam's words triggered memories. Those days were hard, but I was hopeful. I loved Isaac, since high school—from the time he threw his jacket over me in school, shielding me from a period stain. I was hopelessly in love.

When I learned I was to marry him in Mandy's place, I felt like I'd won the lottery. I was willing to endure hardship with him; every moment with him felt like happiness. But this man I loved most took my life.

"Enough!" Isaac roared. "She wronged me first! You defend her so much—were you also her lover?"