Rift in the perfect picture

1 first reinforced Nicholas‘ psychological defenses, then lowered his expectations to gain agreement. True to form, he agreed in a detached tone.

“I wouldn’t lay a finger on you again even if you begged me to.”

I smiled triumphantly, though inside, I felt less than pleased. My smile faded and I quietly hoped he would keep his promise. What was so hard about taking Claudia to her college?

briskly nodded and said, “Deal.”

Nicholas shot me a sideways glance, his forehead creased. Make sure she knows I transferred her to a different college for her good.”

“Got it.”

“She suspects we’re still arguing. Let her know we’re not.” I hummed in acknowledgment.

He paused, then upped the challenge for me, stating, “She’s quite sensitive, so be casual in your approach. Don’t give her any reason to question!”

I smiled in a detached manner. Nicholas treated me as if I didn’t matter. He had finally shown his hand.

“Sure thing!” I stared into his eyes and felt a chill settle over me.

That evening, I remained close to Nicholas, graciously

+25 BONUS

receiving flattering from those around us. In everyone’s eyes, my in–laws cherished me, and I had a husband who was regarded as a gentleman, completely devoted to me. My role as Mrs. Hawk was firmly cemented in their hearts and minds.

Given other intentions, I intentionally introduced my work into conversations. Despite their personal views, everyone complimented me in Nicholas‘ presence and politely accepted the business cards I handed out. Nicholas tolerated my behavior and remained composed.

Since love eluded me, I pursued a different route to secure what I believed was rightfully mine. I threw myself into growing my business.

Nearby, Claudia’s gaze conveyed a mix of admiration,

affection, and something more intense, almost possessive.

It seemed more like the way a woman looked at a man she desired, rather than the gaze of sister toward her brother.

Her intense scrutiny made my skin crawl. I couldn’t withstand it like Nicholas did, so I quickly left the heart of the banquet.

I hid in a corner to catch my breath and couldn’t help

overhearing two women gossiping about me.

“Have you heard? This entire banquet seems to be just a stage for Mr. and Mrs. Hawk to flaunt their love,” whispered a

woman, her hand covering her mouth.

“Exactly. We’re all women here, but how did Mrs. Hawk manage to be so lucky?” a woman with heavy makeup responded.

“You’ve heard about Mr. Fisher, right? He rarely attends these gatherings, but today he showed up here just to take the chance to announce Mrs. Hawk as his goddaughter..NôvelDrama.Org is the owner.

“Yet, Mrs. Hawk completely ignored him. She kept wandering the hall and never approached him.”

“Yeah, I heard Mr. Fisher’s gift today was worth millions. Mr. Hawk is still an only child. ‘Green with envy can’t even begin to describe how I feel about all this,”

Listening to their conversation, I couldn’t help but reflect on how everyone faced their struggles. They only saw my glamorous façade, but didn’t realize the emptiness inside–a lack of love and freedom. How could anyone envy a life like mine?

“Could it be that the ‘Mrs. Hawk‘ you’re talking about doesn’t want this kind of life?” I couldn’t keep silent and emerged from the shadows, startling the two women. I offered a gentle smile.

“What if I pass on the title of Mrs, Hawk to you?” I spoke sincerely, but they seemed to interpret it as jest. I reached into my bag, pulled out my business card, and extended one to them. “I’m Ariana Jones. Let’s get acquainted.

The woman’s hand trembled as she took the card, stuttering, M–M–Mrs. Hawk, I–I couldn’t possibly…”

I gave her shoulder a reassuring pat. “Honestly, I’m ready to move on from being Mrs. Hawk