Novel Betrayed by One CEO, Married to Another

Start Reading

In the third year of Michelle Lowes relationship with Sigmund Lloyd, the man she had been financially supporting, her family went bankrupt.

To save the company, her father tried to force her into an arranged marriage.

That very night, she packed up everything she owned, ready to elope with Sigmund.

However, when she arrived at the exclusive club where he worked, she saw him elegantly socializing with powerful guests.

His refined manners and quiet confidence made him look nothing like the poor young man shed been supporting for the past three years.

Chapter 1

In the third year of Michelle Lowes relationship with Sigmund Lloyd, the man she had been financially supporting, her family went bankrupt.

To save the company, her father tried to force her into an arranged marriage.

That very night, she packed up everything she owned, ready to elope with Sigmund.

However, when she arrived at the exclusive club where he worked, she saw him elegantly socializing with powerful guests.

His refined manners and quiet confidence made him look nothing like the poor young man shed been supporting for the past three years.

Sigmund, I heard the Lowes are going under. Mr. Lowe is trying to sell his daughter off to save the company. Youre not going to help your girlfriend?

Girlfriend? Shes just something to keep Sigmund entertained. His real girlfriends coming back soon. Once shes home, hell ditch that fool Michelle and move on without missing a beat.

Well, shes pretty and has a great body. You get her for free, and she even pays you. Youve made a fortune, Sigmund.

Still, for the golden boy of Northbridges elite to play the part of a sugar baby for three years, youve got patience.

It has been three years and Michelle still hasnt realized Sigmund isnt an employee here but the actual owner. How can someone be that blind?

The room erupted in laughter as smoke swirled through the air.

Amid the noise, Sigmund calmly typed a reply to Michelles message.

She had sent it half an hour ago: Sigmund, lets run away together.

Her phone buzzed softly.

Michelle looked down and saw a single, mocking word on the screen: Sure.

Run away? Where could she even go? Shes her fathers cash cow now. The moment she leaves, hell drag her back to sell her off again.

Sigmund stubbed out his cigarette, then casually pulled a cheap necklace off the hostess beside him.

Another gift for Michelle? Last time it was that ten-dollar silver ring, and before that, a plastic bouquet.

Shes supposed to be a rich girl. How can her taste be that bad? And she never complains?

She loves everything I give her. That silver ring? She wont even take it off.

Michelle froze where she stood, her fingers brushing the ring on her hand, a sharp ache spreading through her chest.

When he gave it to her, she was genuinely happy, thinking he was hinting at a proposal.

But now she realized that it was just a cheap gift he picked without a thought.

Sigmund had been lying to her from the start.

He spent three whole years pretending to be poor.

But she truly loved him.

She bought him designer clothes, luxury watches, cars, and even a villa.

Whenever others mocked him for being a sugar baby, she would blush and defend him without hesitation.

Back then, how ridiculous must she have looked in his eyes?

Michelle couldnt remember how she made it home.

She only remembered the heavy rain pouring down the entire way, and when she finally got home, a fever struck.

In her restless dreams, she kept reliving the memories of their three years together.

Three years ago, heartbroken and drunk, Michelle met Sigmund at a bar.

Drawn to his good looks, she acted on impulse.

She didnt know where her courage came from.

She cornered him in the mens restroom and offered him money to spend the night with her.

After that night, Michelle couldnt get him out of her mind. She thought he was just a bartender working at the bar.

When they met again, she took the initiative to offer him financial support.

From that day on, they quickly got into a relationship.

She gave him money.

He gave her the comfort of a boyfriend. They went for walks, shopped, watched movies, and did all the things a normal couple would do.

For three years, Michelle was always the one in control.

She thought she would never fall in love, but when her father forced her into an arranged marriage, her defenses crumbled completely.

That night, after a fierce argument with her father, Michelles eyes were red as she looked at Sigmund and asked, If I lose all my money, will you still love me?

Sigmund kissed her gently and replied, Of course.

Sigmund, even if I lose everything, Ill never let you live a hard life. You have to believe me.

After that, she started selling all her valuables to prepare for their escape, imagining a new beginning with Sigmund in another city.

Until tonight, she thought she was about to embrace a brand-new life, only to realize she had walked straight into a cruel lie.

Sigmund had been deceiving her all along.

By the next morning, her fever subsided, and Sigmund came home.

He wrapped his arms around her from behind, but the scent on him wasnt the cologne she liked.

I worked all night, he said lazily. Im exhausted. I bought you a gift with my paycheck.

He pulled out a cheap secondhand necklace and clasped it around her neck himself. It suits you. Do you like it?

She answered softly, I do.

Sigmund noticed something was off.

In the past, no matter what he gave her, she would light up like a child, insisting that he didnt need to buy her anything and having him by her side was the best gift she could ask for.

It doesnt seem like you like it that much.

Michelle forced a faint smile. I might not have much money soon, so try not to spend on unnecessary things

So that was it.

She was worried about her familys bankruptcy.

Sigmund kissed her forehead gently.

Dont worry. Ive saved every bit of the allowance you gave me. Plus, I earn my own money at the club. If things get tough, Ill take care of you instead.

Michelle smiled faintly and said nothing, gently pushing him toward the shower.

When the sound of running water came from the bathroom, Sigmunds phone buzzed on the table.

A message appeared on the screen.

It was playful and unmistakably intimate.

Sigmund, thank you for staying with me all night. I cant believe after three years, you still remember the cologne I like.

In that instant, Michelles smile vanished.

So that was why he suddenly changed his cologne.

It was the scent another woman liked.

While she was burning with fever, he was in someone elses arms.

She felt exhausted.

Her heart completely hollowed.

If three years hadnt been enough to warm his heart, then she no longer wanted it.

Michelle walked out onto the balcony and called her father. Dad, I agree to the marriage. Do it as soon as possible, before I change my mind.

Michelle vowed quietly, Sigmund, since I was the one who started this, Ill be the one to end it.

Chapter 2

After his shower, Sigmund lowered his head and caught her ear between his teeth, his fingers slipping beneath her shirt.

When Michelle tried to stop him, it was already too late. He pushed her down onto the bed, covering her lips with his as he moved to take her.

Then his phone rang.

Seeing the caller ID, Sigmund froze for a second before quickly answering.

Sigmund, I think someone broke into my house. Can you come over?

His tone softened instantly, gentle and reassuring. Stay where you are. Dont worry, Ill be right there.

After hanging up, he brushed a quick kiss against Michelles lips. Another job called last minute. They need me to cover a shift.

Michelle said quietly, Didnt I tell you not to overwork yourself?

Things are different now. I know your familys in trouble, so I need to work harder to take care of you, Sigmund said, patting her head before changing clothes and heading out.

He didnt return until late that night.

When he walked in, he noticed something was missing.

Then he realized all the things theyd once shared as a couple were gone.

Those were the little things she had carefully picked out after each date.

Whats this about? Cleaning up all of a sudden? I thought those were your favorites.

Michelle tossed a few more items into the trash and said casually, I dont like them anymore. Ill buy new ones when I find something I like.

Sigmunds chest tightened for no reason, and he quickly grabbed her hand. Its late. Where are you going?

Im staying at home tonight.

Since moving in with Sigmund, Michelle had seldom gone back to her family home. During the height of her love for him, the only place where she could fall asleep peacefully was in his arms.

She gave him a faint smile, picked up her luggage, and walked out the door.

Once in the car, her phone rang again.

It was the real estate agent. Miss Lowe, if you want to sell the villa quickly, youll take a loss. Are you sure? I can list it immediately if youre certain.

The price doesnt matter, Michelle said steadily. The sooner its sold, the better.

The villa was one Michelle had bought for Sigmund three years ago.

The study, bathroom, and balconyevery corner still carried traces of their intimacy.

Even after her familys downfall, she still thought about leaving a part of her wealth behind for Sigmund.

She wanted to ensure hed have a secure future.

But now she realized he had never needed any of it.

He knew about her familys bankruptcy, watched her getting forced into marriage, and did nothing.

When she was most desperate for money, he was still pretending to be poor right in front of her.

A faint, bitter smile tugged at Michelles lips.

Just then, her phone buzzed with a new messagesomeone wanted to meet her.

Miss Lowe, my name is Emily Rivers. Im Sigmunds ex-girlfriend. He probably never mentioned me to you.

Three years ago, I left the country to study after we had a fight, but we never officially broke up. Now that Im back, Sigmund will come back to me.

Last night, he was out the entire time. Arent you curious where he was? Dont tell me you actually believe hes so poor he had to work an overnight shift at that club.

After speaking, Emily took out a bank card and slid it across the table toward Michelle.

I know youre short on money. Heres 6 million dollars. You can use it however you need. But I have one condition. You have to leave Sigmund.

Chapter 3

Michelles throat tightened, and she let out a faint, humorless laugh.

How ironic.

She had always been the one using money to make people go away, yet tonight she was the one being bought off.

Does Sigmund know youre making decisions behind his back?

Emily smiled. You probably have no idea how close Sigmund and I were. We almost got married once.

He used to take me to a different island every year because I loved the ocean. He bought a private restaurant just to recreate the food I missed from my childhood.

Theres a tattoo on his chesta rose ring. I inked it myself. It was meant to be our wedding ring.

Do I need to tell you more about his background? Youve been with him for three years and still dont even know who he really is. Do you honestly think he loves you?

A chill spread through Michelles body.

So, everything he liked and did have been because of Emily.

Miss Lowe, you think you were keeping him, but in truth, hes been using you as my substitute.

Emilys smile brightened, her tone almost teasing. Do you believe me when I say that if I call him right now, hell come straight to me? Want to bet on it?

A storm of emotions flashed through Michelles chest, but eventually, they all settled into calm.

She remembered the first birthday they spent together.

Sigmund brought her a cheap, ugly cake that tasted awful, yet she thought it was the best one shed ever had.

That day, he held her close as she made a wish.

She said, I hope youll still be with me for my next birthday.

Sigmund had smiled and promised, Ill spend every birthday with you from now on.

And once, when shed been drunk and nearly assaulted, Sigmund had shown up just in time.

He held her trembling body in his arms and vowed, From now on, Ill always come for you first. Ill never let anyone hurt you again.

To him, those promises meant nothing. But back then, she believed every word.

Michelle clenched her hands, forcing a smile. Ill do as you wish. Ill leave him, but not because of anything you said tonight.

Hearing the answer she wanted, Emily didnt waste another word.

With the air of a victor, she stood and walked away.

Over the next few days, Michelle was busy arranging her engagement, and Sigmund never once tried to contact her.

It wasnt until she returned to the club that she saw him again, sitting at the bar.

Sigmund seemed distracted all evening, his gaze constantly drifting elsewhere. He didnt even notice when Michelle arrived.

Following his line of sight, she realized hed been watching Emily the whole time.

Men surrounded Emily, drawn to her like moths to a flame.

Ah, what are you doing? Dont touch me!

Her sharp cry broke through the noise.

Sigmunds face darkened as he stormed forward, grabbing a bottle and smashing it over one mans head.

He pulled Emily into his arms, his presence so cold and commanding that no one dared move.

Michelles heart nearly stopped.

She had never seen him lose control like that, but tonight, he was furious because of Emily.

The man who had dared touch Emily had his arm broken within seconds. No one else dared utter a word.

When Sigmund finally left with his people, the troublemakers were all thrown out of the club.

As Michelle walked past one of the private rooms, she heard a womans soft, teasing voice.

Sigmund, dont be so nice to me. Youre forgetting you have a girlfriend. What if she finds out and gets upset?

I dont have a girlfriend. She was just your replacement.

Chapter 4

Through the half-open door, Michelle saw Sigmund holding Emily in a passionate kiss.

After hearing his words, she froze on the spot.

So, Emily hadnt lied.

She really was nothing more than Sigmunds passing amusement. And all this time, shed foolishly believed she was his benefactor.

But the truth no longer mattered. She would be leaving him soon anyway.

Michelle let out a silent, bitter smile and was about to turn away when thick smoke suddenly drifted down the hallway.

Fire! Theres a fire!

The alarm blared, and the entire club erupted into chaos.

People surged from every direction, shoving and stumbling. Michelle was knocked to the floor, struggling to get up before someones foot came down on her again.

When she looked up, she saw Sigmund rushing toward safety with Emily in his arms.

Instinctively, Michelle tried to crawl toward him, screaming his name for help with all the strength she had left.

Sigmund seemed to hear her. He turned and caught sight of her on the floor, bloodied and trampled.

His expression froze.

For a brief second, he looked as though he wanted to go back for her.

But then he noticed Emily faltering in his arms.

After a moments hesitation, he turned away and kept running.

Michelle was stunned. The man who once swore to protect her and never let her be hurt again had abandoned her at the most desperate moment.

Drawing a shaky breath, she forced herself to crawl toward the wall and pulled herself upright, stumbling along with the crowd until she finally made it outside.

Once she reached safety, her knees buckled, and she collapsed straight to the ground.

That was close. She had almost lost her life.

After steadying her breath, she lifted her head and her gaze met Sigmunds from across the crowd.

There were urgency and regret in his eyes, emotions she couldnt read.

But he stayed by Emilys side, not taking a single step toward her.

Was he afraid Emily would misunderstand?

Michelle gave a faint, broken smile, pushing herself off the ground as her eyes reddened.

He used to panic over the smallest scrape on her hand, insisting on taking her to the hospital right away.

But now, Sigmunds eyes could only see Emily.

Michelle returned home alone, cleaned and dressed her wounds with trembling hands, and eventually drifted to sleep on the couch.

When she woke, it was already past midnight. As expected, Sigmund hadnt come back.

She didnt bother asking where hed been. At dawn, as she was about to leave, she ran into him coming through the door.

He pulled her into his arms immediately, scanning her injuries with concern. Did you go to the hospital? Are you hurt anywhere else?

Michelle just stared at him. Did he really not realize how meaningless this performance was now?

Im sorry, Michelle. The woman last night was my sister. Shes been afraid of fire since she was a kid. I couldnt leave her behind.

Sister

He had actually made the effort to invent that lie for Emily.

It doesnt matter whether shes your sister or not, Michelle said calmly.

Sigmund, I cant afford to support you anymore. From now on, youre free.

Sigmunds face darkened, and he yanked her into his arms.

Whats that supposed to mean? Youre done with me, so youre just throwing me away?

Michelle, I wont accept this. You said youd take responsibility for me.

Michelle shook her head with a weary smile and gently pushed him off.

Sigmund, it was just fun. Dont tell me you cant handle that? I treated you well these three years. Now that Im broke, are you trying to squeeze more out of me?

Sigmund yanked her into his arms with force, his teeth grazing her ear in frustration.

Im not going anywhere. Youre not getting rid of me that easily.

Chapter 5

Perhaps sensing Michelles change in attitude, Sigmund began sticking close to her over the next few days, hardly letting her out of his sight.

To make up for what happened that night, he booked a candlelit dinner aboard a luxury cruise.

The dining hall was decorated in a refined, old style, and beyond the windows stretched the endless ocean.

Just as the waiter brought over flowers and wine, Emily appeared, looping her arm around Sigmunds with a delighted smile.

What a coincidence, Sigmund! Youre here too?

Michelles expression froze for a moment.

There was no such thing as coincidence.

This had clearly been planned.

No wonder he had suddenly suggested dinner on a cruise. Hed only wanted a chance to run into Emily.

Miss Lowe, would you mind if I joined you?

Michelle didnt even have the chance to refuse. Sigmund had already pulled out a chair for Emily, looking more than pleased to have her there.

When ordering, Emily laughed teasingly. You ordered all my favorite dishes again. Arent you going to ask Miss Lowe what she likes?

Sigmund pushed the menu toward Michelle with a gentle smile. Take a look. See if theres anything you want.

She shook her head. You decide.

Dinner felt endless, every bite tasteless. Emily and Sigmund chatted easily, completely absorbed in each other, while Michelle sat there like an unwelcome guest.

Feeling suffocated, she got up and stepped outside, wandering into another part of the ship.

As she passed one of the private lounges, someone suddenly grabbed her and yanked her inside.

You look familiar, a man sneered. Since youre here, why dont you join us for a drink?

Werent you the high-and-mighty Miss Lowe? Never took an invite before. Guess now that youve fallen, you dont mind drinking with us after all.

Michelle frowned. These men had been chasing her for a long time and still held a grudge for the humiliation shed dealt them before.

Sorry, Im allergic to alcohol. I cant drink.

She tried to leave, but in the next moment they blocked the door.

A wave of fear rose in her chest and a chill ran down her back.

Michelle, Id advise you not to refuse a drink. No ones protecting you now. What, dont tell me you are relying on your sugar baby? Behave, and youll suffer less. Otherwise, dont blame us for getting rough.

When one of them lunged, Michelles breath caught and she kicked him hard between the legs.

She grabbed an ashtray to defend herself. I warn you Dont touch me, or

Or what? I dont believe you can stop us.

A fist struck Michelle across the face, making her head swim. She stumbled and couldnt keep her balance.

They shoved her to the floor; her forehead slammed into the corner of a table and blood spurted out.

The sight of blood only excited them more. They whistled and forced alcohol into her mouth.

Ill devour you tonight. You used-up whore. Dont act so damn innocent...

Before he could finish his sentence, the private room door flew open.

Someone had kicked it in anger.

Sigmund saw the scene and his eyes went blood-red as he stormed in and punched one of the men hard in the face.

How dare you touch my woman? Youre asking to die!

He went wild, beating the man until he was covered in blood.

Then, with one last kick, Sigmund crushed the mans face under his shoe, forcing him to kneel and apologize to Michelle.

Only when the others stepped in to pull him back did he finally relent, scooping the blood-soaked Michelle into his arms and rushing her out.

On the way to the hospital, he carefully wiped the blood from her forehead, his hands trembling. Im sorry. I never shouldve taken you there. This is all my fault.

Michelle no longer knew how much of what he said was real or just another act.

She only knew that none of this had happened by coincidence.

Among those men, at least one had clearly recognized Sigmund.

Otherwise, they never wouldve backed off so easily.

Her eyes reddened as she asked softly, You picked a fight with them for me. Arent you afraid theyll come after you?

Sigmund pressed his forehead to hers, his voice low and strained. Im not afraid. Nothing matters more than you.

If she hadnt already known hed been lying to her all along, she might have been moved to tears by that line.

But sadly, every word out of his mouth felt hollow now.

The car was silent until his phone rang, shattering the moment.

The change in his expression was instant. His body went rigid, his face darkened.

Michelle, can you go to the hospital by yourself?

She froze, a bitter smile tugging at her lips.

He pulled the car to the side of the road and hurried out. His figure grew smaller in the rearview mirror until it vanished completely.

Only then did Michelle start to laughsoftly at first, then through tears she couldnt stop.

She remembered the voice shed heard through the phone just moments ago.

Sigmund, Emilys in trouble. Please hurry back.

Chapter 6

After getting her wounds treated at the hospital, Michelle was called into the doctors office.

The moment she saw the report, it felt like a dull blade driving straight into her chest, each breath searing with pain.

How could this be possible?

She and Sigmund had always taken precautions, and even when passion got the better of them, she had always taken the pill afterward.

This baby couldnt have come at a worse time.

Doctor, please help me schedule the procedure as soon as possible.

The surgery was set for three days later.

During the following days, Sigmund didnt call her once in front of me.

When a message from Emily popped up on her phone, Michelle tapped her profile photo without thinking.

Emilys social feed read like a love diary, documenting every tender moment between her and Sigmund since her return.

He cooked for her himself, feeding her each bite with care.

He brought her lavish gifts every day, just to keep her entertained during her hospital stay.

He searched through joke books, staying up late to tell her stories and make her laugh.

He cared for her with patience and warmth, even promising her a surprise once she was discharged.

Michelle stared blankly at the screen, and her mind drifted back to the early days with Sigmund.

Back then, she often came home drunk after business dinners, and Sigmund would wait outside the club to drive her home.

When she threw up, he was always the one by her side, cleaning up and comforting her.

She truly believed he had feelings for hereven if those feelings were built on money, she didnt care.

But now she realized shed been wrong all along. She had thought she was the one using Sigmund to fill the emptiness in her life.

In truth, she had been his greatest amusement.

That night, Michelle drank too much again.

She kept dreaming the same dream over and overasking Sigmund if he would marry her and waiting endlessly for an answer that never came.

Anxious and heartbroken, she finally opened her eyes and saw his face, his eyes filled with a tangle of emotions.

Why are you crying in your sleep again?

Michelle touched her cheek and realized her face was wet with tears.

She took a deep breath, trying to steady her heartbeat.

I dreamt you said you didnt love me. That you never planned to marry me.

She said it casually, brushing it off as nonsense, missing the flicker of shock that crossed Sigmunds eyes.

He pulled her into his arms, his tone laced with unease. Is it because I havent been home these few days? You missed me, didnt you? Dont overthink it. Who else would I marry besides you?

Baby, I just dont have the means to give you the best right now. I dont want you to settle for less. Once Ive earned enough, Ill propose to you right away. Okay?

Michelle smiled against his chest, her tears spilling freely.

There was a time, after one of their passionate nights, when she had joked, Youre so reckless every time. What if I end up pregnant?

Hed taken her seriously and said gently, Id love for us to have a child. When I can give you a stable life, well have one together.

Michelle silently slipped out of his arms, but he quickly pulled her back to sit down beside him.

Didnt you say you liked this bakerys cake? I waited in line for two hours to get it. Come on, try it.

At that moment, a message from Emily popped up on her phone.

Hows the cake? I only mentioned it in passing, and he ran off to buy it for me. I even told him to grab another one for you. Its your favorite flavor, right?

The amusement drained from Michelles eyes. She picked up the cake and tossed it straight into the trash.

Sigmunds face darkened immediately, thinking she was still angry.

Sigmund, Im allergic to mango.

Chapter 7

A flicker of guilt crossed Sigmunds face.

He pulled her into his arms, murmuring, Im sorry, baby. I got caught up and forgot. Ill make it up to you, I promise.

The next day, he took her out, keeping the destination a mystery.

Half an hour later, Michelle found herself standing in a bridal boutique.

When she saw the carefully selected gown Sigmund had chosen, her eyes widened.

What are we doing here?

Youve always wanted to get married, havent you? I thought you could try on some dresses. If you like one, well buy it.

His tone was calm, almost casual, but Michelles heart twisted painfully.

What was the point of buying the gown? To put it on display?

She didnt understand what he was planning, but she did need to pick a wedding dress for her own wedding.

So, she quietly went along, trying on one gown after another.

Finally, Sigmund pointed to the last one and told the clerk, This one. Have it wrapped and sent to this address.

He wrote down the address of the villa, then walked over and wrapped his arms around her.

His breath was warm against her ear, his voice low and husky. Baby, you look beautiful in this.

Michelle forced a light tone. This dress must be expensive. Ill pay for it.

Its just a dress. I can handle that, he said, taking her hand, only to realize the silver ring shed treasured for years was gone.

A strange unease crept through him.

Wheres the ring?

Michelle pulled her hand back calmly. I put it away. I didnt want to lose it.

Its not worth much. If its lost, Ill buy you another. Baby, just give me a little more time. Once Ive saved enough, Ill get you a real diamond ring and propose to you properly.

Hearing the same lie once was already enough.

All Michelle felt now was bitter irony and cold laughter in her heart.

Sigmunds fingers brushed over the faint mark where her ring had once been.

He lifted her hand and pressed a soft kiss against it.

Then, glancing past Michelle, his expression suddenly changed.

Baby, try on a few more dresses. Ill go grab us something to eat.

Before she could respond, he let go of her and hurried out of the store.

Sensing that something was wrong, Michelle quickly changed and followed him.

When she finally caught up, her breath caught in her throat.

At the intersection ahead, a terrible crash had occurred.

Emily lay in a pool of blood, and Sigmundinjured himselfwas cradling her tightly, refusing to let go.

When the paramedics arrived, both of them were rushed toward the ambulance.

With what little strength he had left, Sigmund gripped a nurses hand and rasped, Save her first

Michelle stood frozen as the ambulance sped away, her mind blank.

I think they were fighting, a bystander said nearby. The woman ran into the street out of anger, and the man tried to save her. Looks like he took the worst of it.

Yeah, I heard him begging her to forgive him before it happened. Guess they both paid the price.

Michelles head buzzed.

She clutched her chest, bending over as a sharp, tearing pain spread through her heart.

Only then did she understand what it looked like when Sigmund truly loved someone.

A weak smile tugged at her lipsno anger or bitterness, just a hollow kind of irony for the three years shed spent blind.

Her phone rang. The voice on the other end was steady and detached.

Miss Lowe, your procedure is scheduled for ten oclock tomorrow morning. Please arrive at the hospital in advance.

Chapter 8

The moment Michelle was wheeled into the operating room, an unfamiliar sense of relief washed over her.

As the cold instruments pierced her body, tears slid down her cheeks, silent and indifferent.

The memories of the past three years flashed before her eyes like a film reel.

When she suffered from cramps, he would gently rub her abdomen with tender care, whispering, If I could take the pain for you, I would.

When she quarreled with her father and got slapped, he saw the red mark on her face and nearly lost control, ready to storm into the Lowe household to stand up for her.

On stormy nights, he had carried her, burning with fever, through the rain to the hospital, soothing her trembling body in her nightmares, murmuring, Baby, dont be afraid. Ill always be here with you.

Now, Michelle couldnt tell whether Sigmund had been too good at acting or if she had simply been too blind to actually believe he loved her.

All those gentle words and tender momentswho was he really thinking of when he treated her that way?

She was exhausted. She slowly closed her eyes.

Sigmund Lloyd, youll never know we once had a child, a life that never had the chance to be born.

When the surgery was over, Michelle dragged her weak body past the recovery rooms and overheard the nurses chatting.

Its about the couple who came in yesterday I heard the mans rich and powerful. He booked the entire VIP floor so his girlfriend could recover in peace. As soon as he woke up, he went straight to see her.

Yeah, and shes still throwing a fit and wont forgive him at all. The poor guys still injured himself, sitting outside her room, talking to her so gently.

Ive never seen a man love someone like that. Its like something out of a drama, only this feels more real.

Michelle froze, her heart sinking as she made her way toward the VIP floor.

From one of the rooms came a voice she knew all too well.

When she turned, she saw Emily in Sigmunds arms, crying as she accused him.

Sigmund, are you still angry that I insisted on leaving for school back then? Ive regretted it every single day for the past three years.

I wish Id come back sooner. I told you Id make it up to you, but why did you lie to me?

Sigmund gently wiped away Emilys tears, his voice soft with affection. Emily, I didnt lie to you. Youve always been the only one in my heart.

Then what about Michelle? You took her to try on wedding dresses. Were you really planning to marry her?

Her father even tried setting her up with other men. Did you actually start to fall for her?

Emily, listen to me, he said, his tone pleading.

She was with me for three years. I just wanted to give her a proper goodbye, make her happy one last time, and end things cleanly.

She never did anything wrong. I just thought we could part on good terms. But I never forgot my promise to you. Emily, Ill only ever marry you.

Tears streamed down Emilys face, her sobs soft and delicate.

Then break up with her now. I dont ever want to see you with her again. You belong to only me.

Sigmund pulled her into his arms, patting her back and whispering gently, Alright. Whatever you say, Ill do it.

Just a few steps away, Michelle watched with a faint, weary smile.

Perfect.

Lovers reunited at last.

She didnt look any longer and quietly turned away, stepping into the elevator.

When she got back to the villa, she packed up the last of her belongings.

Then her father called.

Your flight to Westbridge is at ten tomorrow morning. The Shaws will meet you at the airport.

I understand. Ill arrive at the airport on time.

No sooner had she hung up than Sigmund walked in.

What airport? Where are you going?

Michelles voice remained calm. Its nothing. Just a business trip out of town.

Chapter 9

Hearing Michelles answer, Sigmund let out a quiet sigh of relief.

He quickly packed a few clothes and explained, I found a new part-time job. Ill be away for a few days for training. Baby, Im going to miss you while Im gone.

Michelle only gave a faint mm in reply. He was probably just going to stay by Emilys side to take care of her.

When she walked into the dressing room, she saw rows of clothes and gifts she had bought for him over the past three years.

The few things hed ever given her barely filled a single shelf.

That night, she signed the final papers to sell her villa, leaving all follow-up matters to the real estate agent.

On her last night before leaving, she met a few old friends for drinks. Halfway through, her head started to ache, and she stepped outside for some air.

She looked down from the second-floor terrace.

The courtyard below had been elegantly decorated, clearly reserved for a proposal.

The place was draped in romantic lights and scattered rose petals.

Out of the corner of her eye, she caught sight of Sigmund.

He was dressed in a black custom-tailored suit, distant and dignified like someone from another world.

Emily stood before him, her eyes red as he approached.

The proud and handsome man lowered himself to one knee and offered her a bouquet of flowers.

Emily, will you marry me?

Tears streamed down her face as she nodded amid the cheers of the crowd.

Sigmund slipped a glittering diamond ring onto her finger, then stood and kissed her deeply.

Moments later, a thousand drones lit up the night sky over the river, forming words of devotion that ended with one dazzling phraseEmily, marry me.

It was Sigmunds proposal.

Michelle had once imagined countless times how he might propose to her.

And now, she was watching it happen, just not to her.

Baby, wait for me. Once I can afford a diamond ring, Ill propose to you.

Baby, when Im capable enough, Ill marry you and give you a home.

Baby...

Those sweet promises still echoed in her ears.

Back then, Michelle truly believed shed live to see that day.

The truth was, he could have saved her but instead, hed stood by and watched as she was forced into an arranged marriage.

His eyes were cold, his heart utterly unmoved.

She wanted to ask him, just once, if there had ever been a moment when his feelings for her were real.

But there was no point anymore.

Michelle gave a faint, self-mocking smile and turned back into the private room.

She partied until dawn, then dragged her suitcase straight to the airport.

Her phone buzzed.

It was Sigmund.

Baby, what times your flight? Text me when you land, okay? Dont make me worry.

Even now, he was still pretending.

Michelle stared at the message for a moment, then deleted his number and blocked every way he could reach her.

As the plane lifted off, her memories shattered like glass in her mind.

Three years of misplaced love was just a dream.

And now that shed woken up, she was going to marry someone else.

Goodbye, Sigmund Lloyd.

This lifetime, they would never meet again.