Chapter 2

The days went by quietly, and soon, it was the eve of Valentine's Day.

"Hey Ethan, Valentine's Day is next week. What are you planning to get Chloe?"

Marcus walked over naturally, throwing an arm around my shoulder with that fake, familiar smile plastered on his face.

Looking at his disgusting face, my stomach churned, and a bone-chilling coldness rose from the depths of my heart.

This very hand resting on my shoulder was the one that had pushed me off the roof in my past life without a second thought.

I quietly shrugged off his arm, using every ounce of my willpower to suppress the urge to choke him to death right there.

Clearing my throat, I kept my voice steady. "Chloe always said she wanted a pet. I already ordered one online."

"A pet? What kind? A dog or a cat? Tell me!"

Marcus's eyes lit up. He leaned in, his excitement almost bubbling over.

I knew his damn Wife-Stealing System was working in the shadows.

Right now, he must be ecstatic, thinking he could effortlessly hijack my thoughtful gift again to woo my wife.

Forcing down a smirk, I shook my head, playing mysterious. "That's all I can say. Otherwise, it won't be a surprise."

I put extra emphasis on the word "surprise."

Marcus didn't suspect a thing. His eyes gleamed with excitement, as if he could already see Chloe looking touched and thrilled upon receiving the gift.

He even licked his lips subconsciously, tasting the sweet flavor of his upcoming victory.

"Hey Ethan, there's one more thing..." Marcus leaned closer, a greasy, flattering smile on his face. "I'm pursuing a girl right now. I want to take her somewhere fancy for dinner. You go out a lot and know the best spots. Any recommendations?"

I pretended to think for a moment. "Go to The Glasshouse. I've been there a few times. The atmosphere is extremely elegant and high-class. Just think about it—a romantic dinner at a place like that, topped with a unique surprise gift. What girl could resist?"

"Of course! Why didn't I think of The Glasshouse!" Marcus slapped his thigh in revelation. "You really know your stuff, Ethan!"

Then, he rubbed his hands together, pulling his neck back sheepishly. "Uh... bro, I'm a little tight on cash lately. Could you lend me a thousand bucks to get by?"

Ha. What a scumbag. Using a system to steal my gifts while borrowing my cash to woo my wife? He really thought I was a brainless ATM.

My fists clenched tightly. I wanted nothing more than to smash his disgusting face in.

But remembering my master plan, I forced a generous smile.

"Money's not an issue!" I pulled out my wallet, counting ten hundred-dollar bills. "Here's a thousand. Go use it. Make sure to reserve a nice table, preferably a booth by the window."

Marcus eagerly snatched the money, a smug, triumphant grin spreading across his face. "Thanks, Ethan! I won't let you down. I'm definitely locking her down tonight!"

We smiled at each other, the air seemingly filled with friendly warmth.

Except behind his smile was a greedy, shameless scheme, while beneath mine lay a freezing, murderous intent.

The trap was set. Now, all I had to do was wait for the prey to walk right in.