6

“Click”— The spotlight suddenly lit up, and Horace opened his eyes in the overly bright light. He found himself lying in a completely darkened room, his clothes having been completely removed... Surrounding him were several burly bodyguards, and a chill instantly swept over his entire body. However, the overwhelming sense of weakness left him unable to rise. “Mr. Wood, bear with it. We just need to shoot a series of injured, bleeding, battle-damaged-looking photos.” A woman’s malicious chuckle came from behind the camera: “That’s enough. Go ahead!” Upon hearing this, the bodyguards not only began to punch and kick him but also pulled out their knives and slashed at him repeatedly, causing blood to gush out instantly... “You pervert! I'm calling the police! What you're doing is illegal!” he screamed in agony. “Oh? So are you going to sue me, or your wife?” The woman sneered, “This estate is my territory. I'm just asking you to sacrifice yourself for art. I promised Amanda I wouldn't touch you beyond taking photos. But if you have other needs...” “Get out!” At that moment, Horace felt like a piece of meat to be slaughtered. His naked body was covered in warm blood, staining the soft light cloth beneath him red..... . Soon, the woman's high heels pressed down on his forehead. At the same time, the camera's flashes flickered like knife blades. The humiliation and pain made Horace curl up into a ball. After an unknown amount of time, the camera finally shut off. Horace couldn't even remember how he put his clothes back on. The blood seeping from his wounds had stained his white shirt in a terrifying manner. His humiliated steps were heavy and slow. “Mr. Wood, I’ve photographed thousands of male models, but you’re the first married man to be brought here by his own wife.” A mocking chuckle came from behind him. Horace’s fingers turned white as he gripped the doorknob. He knew this wasn’t the time to confront the other person. His voice, filled with self-mockery, was resolute: “I’m divorced. She’s no longer my wife..... ." Behind him, the door finally closed. Horace trembled uncontrollably from the pain, wrapping his arms around himself in an attempt to find some warmth. At that moment, the banquet on the first floor was nearing its end. As he numbly walked out of the hall, he suddenly heard a loud “boom”— The next second, fireworks bloomed across the sky above the estate. Sparkling sparks formed clear letters in the sky: “Godfery, happy birthday!” It turned out to be a surprise prepared by Amanda. After midnight, it was Godfery's birthday... In the garden not far away, Amanda stood under the fireworks, her eyes filled with deep emotion in the night: Happy birthday, Godfery. Whether it's a suit or a ring, whatever you want, I'll find a way to get it for you." She spoke as she opened a jewelry box in front of Godfery, revealing the very ring he had traded Horace for... The surrounding crowd erupted in wild cheers: “Kiss her! Kiss her!” Before Amanda could react, Godfery leaned down and kissed her... At that moment, Horace felt a wave of nausea. He began to vomit on the ground, vomiting until tears streamed down his face, vomiting until his heart was filled with nothing but disgust. When he stood up again, it had started to drizzle. Amanda was holding Godfery's hand and getting into the car. Soon, the headlights of the Rolls-Royce cut through the rain and drove away from the estate. On his phone, he received two text messages: “Horace, I have to take Godfery with me first. I've sent a car to pick you up.” “I know you're upset, but just endure this last month. I'll make it up to you properly.” Horace calmly deleted the two messages. Without waiting for the car to pick him up, he limped alone into the rain.