Caesar reserved his affection and warmth solely for Gaia, while I faced nothing but his wrath and unending deceit.
Time and again, he publicly humiliated me, taunted my tears, and dismissed my pleas, leaving me alone with my reflections.
This time, he intended to wield his silent treatment, expecting me to grovel for his return.
But this time, I was resolute, I would never look back.
Just as I was about to step out with my suitcase in hand, he swung open the door, the scent of alcohol wafting around him.
“Where do you think you’re going? Still sulking like a child?”
As his words lingered in the air, he presented me with a captivating necklace. Its radiant beauty was unmistakable and clearly worth a fortune.
My heart raced with anticipation; today marked our ninth anniversary.
I had subtly hinted at wanting a dazzling necklace many times. Still, he would always reprimand me for being materialistic, accusing me of being with him for his riches. “Don’t think being with me will come with rewards. Remember, my family has supported you all these years, so don’t get any lofty ideas!”
From that moment on, I vowed never to ask for anything again.
He placed the necklace gently in my palm, a hint of anxiety in his voice. “I remember you’re great at fixing things. Can you see if you can repair this? I need it urgently.”
So this was the reason behind his gesture.
I scoffed at my own naivety, turning away from him and heading toward the door.
He frowned, stepping closer to grasp my arm, disbelief etched on his face. “Didn’t you hear me? Fix it for me; I have something important to do!”
In the past, I had rushed to fulfill his every request, fearing that even a moment's delay could spark his displeasure.
But now, I coolly pushed his hand away and replied with a hint of sarcasm, “Hire a maid for that. I’ve been one for eight long years, but not anymore. And don’t present me with something that belongs to another woman; it makes my skin crawl.”
Caesar’s expression clouded over, his unsaid words heavy in the air.
Just as he looked ready to respond, a knock came at the door. “Ms. Reeves, your luxury cake is here. Please confirm the receipt.”
Caesar’s gaze drifted to the label: Eighth Anniversary.
His reaction, a brief, unsettled look, betrayed him.
"Zelia… today is our anniversary? And you didn’t remind me?"
A faint smile flickered on my lips as I accepted the cake in silence.