Chapter 2

My wife, Ashley, and I had been married for two years, and our relationship had always been harmonious.

We barely ever argued, a model couple in the eyes of outsiders.

Ashley had a very kind nature and quickly hit it off with my friends.

Three months ago, after a promotion and a raise, I decided to treat my friends to dinner out.

But Ashley insisted it would be more fun at home, easier for us to chat and drink.

That day, she personally prepared a lavish spread of dishes.

All my friends praised me for marrying such a wonderful wife.

Mark was there too that day, sitting right next to Ashley.

“Leo, you hit the jackpot marrying Ashley.”

“She’s gorgeous and so capable, seriously makes a guy jealous.”

Ashley’s face flushed then, and I thought it was shyness or maybe she’d had a bit too much to drink.

Later, Mark kept pouring me drinks, and I ended up pretty wasted.

I only remember Mark being the last to leave.

He even suggested I add Ashley to our SnapChat group.

Since that day, Mark became a regular at our house.

He’d occasionally buy groceries and help Ashley in the kitchen.

But each time, he’d notify me beforehand, almost as if to prevent me from overthinking things.

Ashley’s style of dress used to be quite modest and conservative.

But recently, she’d completely changed her look, going for a sexier vibe.

She’d buy sensual lingerie, but she never wore it in front of me.

I thought she was shy, but now I suspect it wasn’t meant for me at all.

When it came to our intimate life, Ashley would either make excuses or just go through the motions.

“Honey, I’ve been so tired from work lately.”

After saying that, she’d roll over, close her eyes, and pretend to be asleep.

I felt she was working too hard and suggested she quit.

But she insisted that women needed financial independence.

Before all this, I loved her, admired her, and trusted her completely.

But today, Ashley had lied to me, and it left me with no choice but to doubt her.