Chapter 3

Dragging my suitcase, I checked into a hotel near my office.

Just as I settled in, Ethan called.

"So, Boss Chloe, do you need my services on our wedding night?"

His tone was playful. I could practically see the smirk on his face.

Rubbing my temples, I sighed in exhaustion. "Ethan, this is strictly a marriage of convenience."

"The contract didn't rule out benefits," he chuckled. "Don't worry, though. I don't force anyone."

"Then why did you call?"

"Just a reminder. Since we're legally married, we need to play the part."

"What do you mean?"

"There's a business gala tomorrow night. I need a plus-one."

I thought about it. He was right. Since we signed the papers, we had to keep up appearances.

"Text me the time and place."

After hanging up, I stared at the dark screen, a whirlwind of emotions swirling inside me.

It was surreal. I was officially Ethan’s wife now.

The next day at the office, my assistant informed me that Julian had come looking for me multiple times.

"Tell him not to come back."

She hesitated. "Dr. Wright seemed desperate. He said he had something really important to explain."

"There's nothing to explain."

I entered my office and closed the door.

On my desk sat a framed photo of Julian and me.

He wore his white coat, and I leaned on his shoulder, smiling brightly.

I picked up the frame, hesitated for a long while, and tossed it into the trash.

Eight years wasn't something you could drop overnight.

But I knew I had to let go.

That afternoon, I left early to get ready for the gala.

Just outside the building, I ran straight into Julian.

He looked worn out, with dark circles under his eyes.

"Chloe, let's talk."

"We have nothing to talk about."

I tried to walk around him, but he grabbed my wrist.

"Just five minutes. Please."

His voice was hoarse, filled with pleading.

"Chloe, yesterday was my fault, but I really had no choice."

He rushed to explain, "The patient was in critical condition. If I hadn't gone back, someone could have died."

Looking at his bloodshot eyes, I pulled my wrist free without hesitation.

"It's always that excuse, Julian. Don't you get tired of it?"

"It's the truth!" he raised his voice. "I'm a doctor. Saving lives is my duty!"

I sneered. "And Lily? Is she your duty, too?"

He froze. "Lily is young, she still needs guidance..."

"She's twenty-five, Julian! Not fifteen."

I cut him off.

"For three years, you've covered for every mistake she made. Has she improved even a fraction?"

I looked him dead in the eye. "You treat her like a helpless child.

"But what she thinks of you... you know damn well."