Part 1The Wicked Stepmom's KPI

I was reborn as the wicked stepmother in a novel, and my only goal was to meet the KPIs set by my "System."

To do that, I ordered the son, Matt, to do the laundry and mop the floors, while the daughter, Monica, had to wipe the windows and weed the garden.

A year later, the male lead—my husband—finally returned, bringing his one true love with him.

I had my bags packed, ready to be kicked to the curb and jet off to the Maldives to find a hot young model.

But his true love pointed a manicured finger at my suitcase, demanding I leave all my gold and jewels behind.

That’s when my stepson, Matt, stepped forward. "Don't worry, Mom. You go on ahead. I'll be right behind you."

My stepdaughter, Monica, nodded in agreement. "We don't need this junk anyway. Dad has a safe. As soon as I crack the lock, I'll wire all the money to you."

The male lead: ...

Me: ?

* * *

"Host, all you have to do is maintain your 'wicked stepmother' persona and torment them!" the System's voice echoed in my head.

"Make them suffer! Make them despair! When the male lead returns with his beloved, the two little ones will be so moved by her maternal grace that they'll flock to her. Then, your mission will be complete!"

"Your reward? Forty years of ageless youth!"

I practically burst into tears of gratitude.

This System got me. Because a woman’s heart stays young forever!

That was a prize more tempting than any amount of money.

And speaking of money, I wasn't worried. In this mansion, a single vase was worth a fortune. On the day I was thrown out, I’d just secretly pocket a few trinkets—enough to live lavishly for the rest of my life.

Once this gig was over, I was going to chase after college boys!

I immediately snapped to attention. "Yes, sir! Mission accepted!"

The System, pleased, sweetened the deal by offering me three lifelines. If I ever ran into trouble, I could call on it for help three times.

I glanced at the two pudgy little things standing before me, barely reaching my knees.

I scoffed.

Handling them? It would be as easy as playing with a pair of puppies.