Chapter 2

As soon as I got home, I quickly got ready for bed and burrowed under the covers.

Julian tiptoed into the room, a bouquet of flowers in his arms, which he gently placed on the table.

He walked to the bedside, resting an arm on my shoulder, his voice full of apology, tinged with a hint of playful cajolery.

"Honey, I'm so sorry. I had some business to discuss today and couldn't make it for dinner with you."

I looked at him, saying nothing.

His routine was exactly the same as before, only then it was for work engagements; now, it was for his young girlfriend.

He then opened a gift box, revealing a necklace from a brand I often wore. It was indeed a style I liked.

"Honey, do you like it? Let me put it on for you."

I stared into his eyes.

"No need. I really like the one you gave me before. I'm not that greedy."

Julian paused, then grinned.

"Honey, that's not greedy at all! The old one's beautiful, but with a new one, it's nice to switch them up. My wife is so gorgeous, everything looks good on you."

As he spoke, he reached out, cupped the back of my head, and leaned in to kiss me.

I fought down the surge of nausea and turned my head, avoiding his lips.

I managed to compose myself, unwilling to waste another word on him.

"Just wash up and go to bed. I'm a bit tired from today. I want to sleep."

Julian, just like always, affectionately stroked my head.

"Alright, honey. Get your rest. Beautiful people need their beauty sleep, you know."