Chapter 4
Vanessa came to see me that evening.
She walked into my study without knocking, wearing a tight black dress and carrying a bottle of expensive wine. Her smile was bright, but her eyes were calculating.
“Darling,” she said sweetly, “I’ve been so worried about you.”
I stayed in the wheelchair, keeping my expression tired and weak.
“Have you?”
She walked over and sat on the arm of my chair, running her fingers through my hair.
“Of course. I know this has been hard for you. But I’ve been thinking… maybe we should postpone the wedding. Just until you’re feeling better.”
I almost smiled.
She was already trying to distance herself.
“Postpone?” I asked quietly.
Vanessa nodded, putting on a concerned expression.
“It’s just… the press is already talking. And some of the investors are nervous. If we get married now, it might look bad for the company.”
I looked up at her.
“So you’re worried about the company’s image?”
She hesitated for half a second, then nodded.
“Yes. And your health, of course.”
I reached out and gently took her hand — the one wearing my engagement ring.
“Vanessa,” I said softly, “if I never walk again… would you still want to marry me?”
She froze.
For a moment, her mask slipped. I saw the truth in her eyes — hesitation, calculation, and a hint of disgust.
Then she forced a smile.
“Of course I would,” she lied. “But let’s not think about worst-case scenarios right now. We should focus on your recovery.”
I let go of her hand.
“I see.”
Vanessa stood up, clearly uncomfortable.
“I should let you rest. We can talk more tomorrow.”
After she left, I sat in silence for a long time.
The woman I was supposed to marry couldn’t even pretend to love me when she thought I was broken. She was already planning her exit strategy.
And yet, a maid with nothing to gain had shown me more kindness in one moment than Vanessa had in three years.
I looked down at the engagement ring I was still wearing.
May you like
It was time to take it off.
Permanently.
