The morning sunlight filtered softly through the sheer curtains of her childhood bedroom. Han Yue sat up slowly, her fingers instinctively brushing her left wrist.
There, just below the bone, was a tiny red mole, shaped like a drop of blood.
It hadn't been there yesterday.
The Space Jade… she thought. It had vanished after she dropped blood on it, and now this mole had appeared in its place—discreet, hidden, and strangely warm.
Her grandparents' letter echoed in her mind.
"This heirloom has been passed down through generations on your grandmother's side… Guard it well, and be cautious of people's hearts. You never know what they might be hiding."
Han Yue exhaled softly. She could feel a change within her—not just physically, but mentally too. In her past life, she had been naive, soft-hearted. But now, she had been reborn, and she wouldn't let others use her again.
After washing up, she changed into a neat, modest outfit and headed downstairs to the dining hall.
The family was already there.
Her father, Han Jifu, sat at the head of the table reading the news on his tablet. Across from him, Han Jiaojiao sipped juice with a bright smile. At the far end, Madam Wei, her Second Aunt, was helping herself to the maid-served breakfast, gossiping idly about business.
Han Yue greeted them politely and took her seat.
"You look better today," Han Jifu remarked without looking up.
"She must've slept well in her old room," Jiaojiao said sweetly. "I'm so happy she's back."
Han Yue gave her a quiet look, saying nothing.
Moments later, the butler entered. "Sir, the family lawyer has arrived."
Han Jifu nodded. "Bring him in."
The lawyer, a calm-looking man in a crisp suit, entered with a briefcase. After some formal greetings, he addressed the room.
"As stated in the will of the late Master and Madam Han, upon Han Yue's return to the family, she is to receive a 10% inheritance of the Han Corporation's shares. These have now been officially transferred to her name."
There was a beat of silence.
Second Aunt's chopsticks paused in mid-air, her eyes wide. Jiaojiao's smile barely twitched, but a flicker of unease passed through her expression.
"Ten percent?" Second Aunt muttered, trying to keep her voice low.
Han Jifu spoke firmly. "It was their decision. She's their granddaughter."
The lawyer handed Han Yue the paperwork and walked her through the signatures. She read every line carefully before signing—she wasn't going to be deceived again.
As the lawyer left, Han Jifu cleared his throat.
"There will be a welcoming party in three days," he announced. "We've invited shareholders, close family members, and a few business acquaintances. It's time we formally reintroduce you to society, Han Yue."
"That's wonderful!" Jiaojiao chimed in. "You'll love it. It'll be so nice for everyone to meet you."
Han Yue gave a small, polite smile.
"Yes. I look forward to it."
But in her heart, she was already preparing. Preparing for the performance, the fake smiles, and the subtle schemes.
This time, she wouldn't be caught off guard.
This time… she'd see everyone clearly.