---- Every photo was meticulously dated, starting ten years ago. My fingers trembled as I reached for the file at the very bottom. A medical report. "Isabella Torrino: Nerve Damage Treatment Protocol" It stated clearly: Patient's initial nerve damage is fully reparable. However, per Mr. Vincent Torrino's directive, a placebo treatment will be administered to ensure permanent functional impairment. I collapsed to the floor, the report fluttering from my hand. For three years, I had cried myself to sleep, hating my own weakness, hating that I couldn't create. And he, the husband I loved more than life itself, was the one who had destroyed me. Tears streamed down my face, hot and furious, but I ---- wiped them away with a vicious swipe. This wasn't the time for grief. It was time for answers. I quietly put everything back, my movements stiff with newfound purpose. Vincent had already told me he was taking me to an auction tonight. I changed into a black evening gown and waited for him to come for me. "And now for tonight's main event, lot number 37," the auctioneer's voice boomed. "A sculpture design by the brilliant artist Sophia Martinez, titled 'Rebirth.'" My skin went cold. The design on the massive screen was mine. My work from three years ago. Every line, every curve, was the result of countless ---- nights I'd poured my soul into. "That's my design," I hissed, grabbing Vincent's arm. "Vincent, that's my work." He shook my hand off, his eyes like chips of ice. " Isabella, don't be ridiculous." ""'Look closer! The signature-that flourish on the 'A ? is my trademark. And the filigree on the angel's wing .. that's my technique. No one else does that. My voice rose, drawing stares. Sophia walked over, a mask of perfect concern on her face. "Isabella, I know it's been painful for you, not being able to create, but..." "Shut up!" I lunged at her. "That's mine! You're a thief!" Crack! The sound of Vincent's hand striking my face echoed in the sudden silence. Ahush fell over the entire auction house. ---- Every powerful figure in the room was staring. "That's enough, Isabella!" Vincent's eyes were filled with pure disgust. "Shut your mouth." My cheek burned, tears blurring my vision. "Vincent... " "Sophia is a hero to this family. If you dare insult her again, don't think for a second I'll remember we're married." He turned to the crowd. "My wife... hasn't been herself lately. Please excuse her outburst." Muffled laughter. Mocking whispers from every corner. I felt like I'd been stripped naked for the world to see. I fled to the restroom. Amoment later, Sophia strolled in, touching up her lipstick in the mirror. "you know, Isabella," she said, her eyes meeting mine in the reflection, a vicious smile on her lips, " that mission three years ago? I could have easily