Scars Of Marriage.

DESCRIPTION(This is a work of fiction, all places, people, etc. are not real and weren’t made in reference to any place or person.)

In Muni country, Shiba Ada’s life has been shaped by hardship-until a glittering proposal from the powerful Charpil family promises salvation. Marrying Henry Charpil, the enigmatic heir to a fortune that looms over Muni like a shadow, seems a divine escape. But behind the gilded doors of wealth lies a prison of unspeakable cruelty.  

Shiba soon discovers that her husband’s charm masks a monstrous truth. Trapped in a marriage rife with violence and violation, she becomes the target of a society eager to vilify the victim rather than confront the abuser. As whispers of jealousy and judgment swirl, Shiba’s cries for help are met with scorn, leaving her isolated in a nightmare that eclipses the poverty she once fled.  

Haunted by despair, she edges toward a tragic breaking point-only to awaken fractured, her past erased, and her future hinging on the mercy of a stranger. In this harrowing journey from shattered innocence to unyielding strength, Shiba must confront the scars etched by betrayal and reclaim her voice in a world determined to silence it.  

“Scars of Marriage” is a raw, unflinching exploration of survival against towering odds-where light pierces the darkest corners of the human spirit, and resilience becomes the ultimate act of defiance.  

CHAPTER 1: My Family

Trigger warning ahead, in most chapters; sexual assault, physical assault etc. If you are triggered by such acts please refrain from reading ahead. However I promise you won’t regret reading.

I am Shiba Ada Fuli,born as the third child to my mother Hali Deria and father Dwanti Fuli. My father has three wives and 13 children in total.

My mother is the first wife having given birth to my elder brother Funa Ady Fuli, second elder sister Sima Fuli and finally me the third child. She got some womb complications and the town doctor declared that she would never give birth again,you can say I narrowly escaped not being born.

My father’s second wife is Nada Jino and she has two sons named Gundi Fuli and Polly Fuli respectively and two girls named swanti Fuli and Twina Fuli.

The third and last wife is wonga Ani and she has six children in total. Four daughters named,yopi fuli,Soni Fuli,Zuri Fuli, Joki Fuli respectively followed by two sons named Hudi Fuli and Dwan Fuli. I guess you can say she is fertile indeed,my only prayer is that she stops giving birth after the last child,it is becoming a camp out here.

In my country Muni,a man is allowed to marry as many women as he pleases as long as he can take care of them. We are not Muslim either,I always have to clarify this everytime I tell someone about our customs.

My father was a town clerk,we used to have money at the time. I remember being showered different gifts in form of dresses,toys when I was like 5 years old. However,all good things come to an end, due to a failed project in town,my father lost his job and he was denied any government position from then on.

My father had many Fields and cattle but he sold some off inorder for my brother to finish his studies. He is now a doctor in country Huner, which is neighbouring our Muni country,he rarely comes home now as he is working hard to send money home for my father’s treatment,who now has some kidney issues and my younger brothers’ necessities.

As for my second sister and I, our education stopped at that time. My father said that since we are women,our husbands would take care of us and studying was a waste of time.

What could I say,I loved education but I also knew our family’s current condition,I couldn’t be selfish even if I wanted to.

My younger brothers go to the town government school which fortunately is free from any school fees. The only necessarily requirements are books,pens and a school bag.

My younger sisters’ fate is also the same as mine and Sima,their future husbands were marked the target of their responsibility as well.

Being gifted in sewing, I am in charge of making my younger brothers’ school bags. My second elder sister Sima got married last year to a very good man in our town and she is expecting her first child.

When she is free,she normally stops by and helps me with the sewing.

Today,we are celebrating the new year, normally,most families would slaughter animals for barbeque, roasting,frying and giving away. However,that is out of question in our home.

Father had sold off most of his cattle to send my elder brother Funa to school and also for his treatment. The remaining were left incase of an emergency.

The new year was just like other days in our compound. I was heading towards the granary to get some flour for baking some bread when I heard an excited voice calling me, turning around, I saw Tanti wero, my childhood friend running towards my direction.

“Shiba!” Tanti shouted.
“Tanti! Slow down. You seem so excited,any good news?” I laughed as I asked. Tanti has always been lively and cheerful since childhood. She always made everyone laugh.

I saw Tanti shly smiling before saying” I am getting married!”

I was very surprised, Tanti had previously said that she would only marry the man she loved and no one would ever force her to marry any other man.

“So quick?who is the man?do I know him?” I immediately inquired.
” Do you know Zire Guyi? We used to go to their house in our childhood. He was overseas,now,he is back. When we met,we both liked each other,” Tanti said.

Of course I knew Zire,his father was among the top richest men in Muni. Tanti was lucky this time, the man she set her eyes on had to be promising. I lovingly became envious.

“Isn’t he older than you though?” I asked. I now suddenly recalled that when we went to Zire’s house,the boy was almost or equal my elder brother’s age.

“So what?what matters is that we like each other,my parents and his also reached an agreement. Our marriage has been set,” Tanti said as she helped me pick flour from the granary.

We walked together whispering and laughing. I then saw a potable basket covered with a transparent cloth in front of our house.
“What is that?” I asked.
“I bought,beef,roasted chicken and some vegetables,I am getting married and my best friend has to also celebrate !”. Tanti excitedly Said.

I gently smiled,Tanti knew my family’s condition,she just didn’t want to bluntly tell me that today was a new year celebration and I know you can’t celebrate it like other families, so I bought these for you.

“Thank you. I wish you a blissful marriage,” I said as I picked up the basket. We then headed inside the kitchen. I took over the cooking immediately and Tanti helped me with washing the vegetables as we discussed her marriage partner.

After cooking,I saw two small heads peeping,it was swanti and Gundi,my younger siblings. They might have sensed the smell of beef.

I placed some bread,beef and vegetables on two plates then told them to come in and eat.

In our household,each wife had a different compound. The entire family would only meet during family meetings and functions. However, I was now the older sister in the house as Sima had gotten married.

I was also in charge of making my younger siblings bags and they personally came to pick them up from my mother’s compound.

My younger siblings liked spending time in my mother’s compound than their own,they told me that by being here,they wouldn’t get spanked or scolded by their mothers.

Apart from that, swanti,my younger sister was a foodie,she normally came knocking on my door at the slightest smell of food. I always wondered,if our family was wealthy,how heavy would swanti be by now. Poverty might have been a blessing in disguise.

Chapter 2: Tanti’s Wedding.

As Tanti’s wedding drew near, I had to go to her home and help her with the jewelry selection, wedding bath etc .

Zire’s family was wealthy and their pre- wedding gifts were generous as well. I was amazed at the gold and silver jewelry that was sent to Tanti.

“I bet you will be the most beautiful bride” I said as I selected some jewelry for different dresses.

” Not as beautiful as you,I heard from my mother that many men in Muni wanted your hand in marriage but were denied by your father.”. Tanti said.

I was not surprised,after Sima’s wedding,my father vowed that only a man, more rich than her husband would ask for my hand in marriage. I had long given up on finding love,I had to show gratitude for the care that my father showed me and pay for it somehow.

” Why don’t you just refuse such orders! Go with the man you love just like me!” Tanti angrily said. I gently smiled without care.

” You also know my father,his temper can’t be provoked” I said.
“Dwanti! That old man has always been so hardheaded,he is like a bull!” Tanti rebuked. I suddenly laughed,my father would probably shake in furry if he heard Tanti’s words.

“I see you girls are having a time of your life here” Tanti’s mother said as she brought us the locally made coffee.
“Thank you auntie” I said as I helped her place the coffee tray on the nearby table.

“This girl Tanti,her father and I couldn’t stop her from the choice she made,she was so adamant on marrying Zarie that boy.” Tanti’s mother said with a gentle smile.

“As long as Tanti is happy,that’s all that matters” I replied while turning to comb Tanti’s hair.

“Zarie has been living overseas for such a long time,I am worried that Tanti will not adjust well” Tanti’s mother worriedly said.

“What are you indirectly calling me? A country bumpkin who knows nothing? I will have you know that I completed my studies and know more of the outside world!”. Tanti declared. Tanti’s mother and I simply smiled.

“Okay,okay,you are  well knowledgeable and informed. Okay?” I said

Evening approached,my mother was already informed that I would spend some days at Tanti’s house for her wedding ceremony so I didn’t have to go home.

That night,I slept with Tanti in the same bedroom as we talked about our childhood days and elementary days. I hadn’t finished my studies so Tanti tried teaching me some new words people who stayed overseas used.

“You will surely adjust well with Zire,you know more and are well educated. I just pray that my partner will be from Muni so that I can at least fit in with his family ” I sighed as I said.

“What are you worried about? You are beautiful,kind, loving and any man would be lucky just by having you in his presence. Let’s have some sleep, tomorrow is another hectic day”. Tanti said,we immediately switched off the lights before we went to bed.

During our Muni wedding ceremony,the bride and other bride’s maids would meet in the woman elder’s compound for guidance and then dance together to celebrate the bride’s blissful journey to marriage.

The elder’s compound was a stone away from Tanti’s home so we dressed ourselves in the best garments before heading there.

After the guidance,the dance started and we all gathered around Tanti singing and dancing lively. It was a very joyous moment for everyone.

“You have always been a great dancer Shiba,I can’t keep up!” Tanti said. I laughed,when our Muni country had any traditional dance competition with our neighbouring countries,I would always compete and I have been undefeated to date.

“Your wedding is finally taking place tomorrow,aren’t you scared and shy” I tentatively asked.

“Of course I am shivering as we speak” Tanti jokingly said. I snorted before preparing her a plate of food. Her nails,palms and hands had been manicured so she couldn’t do any work now.

Finally, Tanti’s wedding approached, her wedding dress was well put together and the fabric was magnificent. Her jewelry magnified her already beautiful face.

“I was right,you are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen” I said as I attached her face veil.

“Thank you,I promise to be at your wedding when the time comes!” Tanti declared.

I quickly put on my own bride’s maids dress and allowed the hired makeup artists to do her work. I then attached my veil too.

“Wow,you look fabulous Shiba!” Tanti’s mother exclaimed.

“Thank you but Tanti takes the trophy today. ” I said

“She surely does,her wedding dress was custom made by the Dinas” Tanti’s mother said. I was once again overwhelmed,the Dinas were the town’s most expensive cloth store,they only made clothes for the top 1% in Muni. I was marveled at Tanti’s luck once again.

The wedding ceremony was grand and different wealthy families were in attendance. I saw some government officials that I could only see on Tv.

My father was also in attendance,he always strived to carry favour with those government officials ever since his last incident,I shook my head as I turned around to lead Tanti to sit in the bride’s chair.

Wedding vows were exchanged and I was able to see Zire after so many years. He was tall and strong with a big smile,he seemed happy with his choice.

Tanti had requested me to dance at her wedding,she said that non of those hired dancers compared to me. She also didn’t want dancers from other countries to be exported when I was here. I was so overwhelmed but agreed,there is nothing I couldn’t do for my friend.

I had already choreographed the dance so everything was smooth.
I put all my effort into making Tanti’s wedding memorable for her.

“Mr Dwanti,I heard that is your daughter?she is a great dancer” A man that suddenly sat  besides Dwanti said.

When Dwanti saw who it was,he was shocked and flattered.
“Mr Musa Charpil! It’s an honor to meet you. That is my daughter Shiba Ada. She has been Tanti’s friend since childhood”  Dwanti slowly explained

Mr Charpil simply nodded before turning his gaze towards the dancing Shiba on stage with a pensive look.

Chapter 3: Brother’s Call.

Tanti’s mother and father lovingly sent her off to Zire’s house. We hugged and cried as I wished her the best in her next step.

I had to go home after the ceremony was done,my mother  was already waiting for me at Tanti’s house.

“Your father wants you to meet someone,he told me to take you to them” my mother said. My father rarely called me for anything out doors,I figured that it must be an important matter,we then headed there.

“Aha,Shiba. Come meet Charpil. You must have heard of him” My father said after seeing us approached.

Of course I knew Musa Charpil,he was always in the news about establishing a new project here and there,he was what can be called big money in Muni. However,it was abit awkward as I had never talked to such a big person before.

“Halo” I politely greeted.
“Haaaa…this girl,she is abit shy Infront of people she doesn’t know” my father laughingly said to Charpil.

“How old are you this year Shiba?”. Musa inquired.
“19 years old sir” I replied in a low voice.
“Oh,your father told me that your education had been stalled? How about you resume your studies”. Musa said.

I was slightly surprised,did he want me to pursue my studies? But father had bluntly refused such a suggestion when it was raised.
“Of course she would be thrilled to go back to school. Come on Shiba thank Mr Charpil” my father said.

” No problem,Shiba seems to be a very cultured and polite girl. She deserves this simple thing.”. Musa said.

It’s not like I didn’t have any misgiving towards Charpil’s offer,why would he suddenly want to elevate my education.

I knew men like him,they always lusted over different young women because of their money,if it was marrying such a man. I would have to rebel for the very first time.

After the meeting with Charpil,we sat in my dad’s old car and headed home.
“Why were you so dull just then? You are always laughing and talkative while at home. You just can’t grasp opportunities!” My father sternly said.

I became silent at his words,what did he want me to do? brightly smile at Charpil and be enthusiastic at someone I don’t even know. Of course I was talkative at home!that was home,with people I knew and people who knew me.

I however couldn’t try explaining this to him,he had been short tempered ever since he lost his job. It felt like we were walking on eggshells around him.

When my father saw that I was silent and didn’t want to talk,he was even more enraged.
“Ha!Do you think Musa would want to have anything to do with a country bumpkin like you? He is always among high class women,him extending his hand is just like it is! Don’t think he was lusting after you!” My father angrily said.

“Okay Dwanti,that’s enough,Shiba has always been like this. A girl shouldn’t be so open minded outside least people talk” my mother interjected.

“You are always shielding her,her attitude gets worse the more you do so!” My father said but he cooled down after my mother’s words.

When we arrived, swanti run towards us before being carried by my father.
“How has my greedy girl been?” My father asked as he lightly patted swanti’s cheeks. Swanti giggled happily.

I couldn’t lie and say that I wasn’t jealous,I don’t remember the last time my father treated me like that. Would swanti’s fate also be like mine?

I had just entered the house when a phone call came in from our house’s phone. It would normally be my brother calling so I rushed to receive it.

“Halo?” I said
” Shiba,how have you been? I heard that Tanti is now married,I sent her a little gift. Unfortunately,I wasn’t able to come” my brother said.

“Yes she got married,we were just from her wedding” I replied
“I thought no one would pick up the phone. Isn’t it late,what took you so long to come back home?” My brother asked. I told him about meeting Charpil. He was silent for some time.

” I am working on getting a better job,if you want to study,there are many schools I can take you” my brother said. I however could feel his exhaustion from the phone.

“How old am I? I know how to sew, crotchet,bake etc. If I start working,I will make more money than you!” I said. My brother laughed at my declaration.

“Is that Funa?” My mother asked as she entered into the house.
I slightly took the phone from my ear ” yes mom,brother is on the call” I said.

“Let me talk to him!” She said as she approached me. I then passed her the phone.

“You boy,others are getting married and you are still not married! How old are you! Quickly find a woman or I introduce one to you!” My mother lashed out.
“Mum,how are you?” My brother said,when my mother heard his tired voice,she was slightly hesitate to scold him.

“You boy,stop working so hard,your father will be fine,just settle down. You also deserve a good life!” My mother dotingly said.
“Okay mum.” My brother said,I could feel his mood lift from the phone.

My mother and brother talked for a long time before hanging up the phone.

” I remember there was that girl you used to learn baking from,what was her name? ” My mother asked.
” Vicky? Why are you asking about her all of a sudden?” I replied

“Your brother has been single for a very long time,look at your sister,she is already married and expecting her first child but your brother hasn’t even said anything about his future. It’s better if I arrange things for him. He doesn’t even have time to do that!”  My mother said.

“Mom,why don’t you let Ady make his own choices” I suggested.

“Look at you,your brother needs someone to Carry some of his burdens,he always sounds tired and exhausted whenever we talk. A wife can help calm him down” my mother said. I also wished my brother the best but the best had to have been decided by him.

My brother had sacrificed a lot from our family,the best we could repay him with was to let him be happy and content with his choice.

Chapter 4: The marriage agreement.

This very day,I had finished churning some ghee and stored it when I was called by my mother.

” You said father wants me to attend to some guests?” I asked.
“Yes,I see many heavy and expensive cars in the compound. He said that you should dress up and attend to the guests” my mother said.

I had no other option but to do as I was told. I was surprised to see that it was Musa Charpil, with his son Henry Charpil!

Who was Henry Charpil you say? he was the most famous man in Muni and abroad! His social following was known far and beyond to people who weren’t on social media like me.

When I went in town,I normally heard stories about him,his current girlfriend and last girlfriends. To top it off,many girls were still fighting to be his girlfriend even for one day! He was so handsome that he was asked why he didn’t become a star on live Tv.

His answer was that actors were like pets who entertained people,no one would take them seriously out of their acting career. If anyone had said that,they would have faced heavy backlash but that was Henry!who would dare rise their voices if they didn’t want their career to end.

I composed myself and quickly served the guests. My father was laughing from ear to ear at everything they said.

“Oh by the way Shiba,this is Henry, Charpil’s son. You must have heard of him right?” My father said.

“Yes,I have heard of him” I quietly said.

“Haaa…your son’s fame is surely not small,even my hidden daughter knows him” my father smilingly said.

“This boy,it was my fault not to teach him well. Please forgive me” charpil’s mother said.

“What do you mean? Henry is a very brilliant man! Well-rounded in Muni and beyond!” My father greatly praised. You would think he had known Henry ever since he was born.

I excused myself and left the room before the attention was directed to me again.

As I was patiently waiting in the side room,I heard the door being pushed before I saw Henry coming in. I was lost for words and just stood there.

“Haa.why are you so shocked? I just came in for us to talk since we are getting married any way” Henry said.

“……………”My brain stalled for some time. Had my father settled on my marriage,and Henry was to be my future husband? Why me though? I thought that those high class families only wanted to marry within their circle,why the sudden change?

“Your facial expressions are so funny,let’s just talk like normal adults okay?” Henry said before sitting down.

“So I am Henry I guess you already knew about me,25 years old,your future husband. What about you? Anything you would like to tell me?”. Henry introduced himself before asking me.

” Why was this marriage set all of a sudden?” I immediately asked.
“I don’t know? I guess my father liked your face,you are pretty by the way” Henry said.

This is not how I expected my marriage to be announced to me,it was so fast, confusing and overwhelming.

“Hy,what is your name?age etc ” Henry repeated.

“I am Shiba Ada Fuli,19years old.” I quietly said.

“Have you always been this silent?” Henry asked.

“I guess I can be talkative to people I know” I said.

“Then be talkative,we shall be tied together from now on,it’s better to get used to each other” Henry said. I could only nod.

Henry seemed like an extrovert and lively person.
I don’t know if I could match his energy.

But at least,it wasn’t Musa Charpil I was being married off to,I guess it was alright.

“Henry?I knew you would be here! Quickly come out,you will give Shiba a scare” Henry’s mother said before taking him outside.

Henry smiled at me before leaving,he was indeed very handsome,my face couldn’t help but heat up.

After some time,the charpil’s left. My father called me and my mother before telling us about the marriage agreement.

“Shiba,what do you think of Henry?” My mother asked.
“What would she think? Henry is young,rich, wealthy and on top of that he liked her,she is the most luckiest girl in Muni now” my father said as he slipped his coffee.

After listening to my father’s words what would I add,indeed he was right. For a girl like me,who is uneducated and knows almost nothing outside Muni country,Henry was the best man I could ever be matched with.

” Go and prepare,the charpil’s bought many clothes and jewelry with them,see the ones you like. Avoid dressing down in public from now on. You are no longer on the same status you previously were” my father added

My mother and I left the room and we were met with my father’s third wife,wonga Ani,she wore an envious look before entering the room we just left

“Wonga is still young,she likes nice things,seeing that all the expensive gifts were given to you,she couldn’t hide her envy. If there are some clothes you don’t like,send some to her” my mother said

“Okay mother” I replied. Among my father’s wives,wonga was the youngest as she was the last wife. She was only 26 years old this year.

We then reached our house,rows and rows of gift bags were assembled Infront. I was surprised,if these were just greeting gifts,what about the actual gifts to be sent on the wedding day?

I told my sister and brother about the matter. My brother was slightly relieved that it wasn’t Musa as I was. My sister also exclaimed in surprise as I had previously done.I guess we were siblings after all.

Tanti was overwhelmed with the news,she informed me that Zire was friends with Henry and they normally discussed business together.

She said it was God’s will for me to be married to Henry as that meant that we would always interact with each other occasionally,this somehow put my heart at ease.

We slowly unpacked the gifts until midnight. I found some candy and chocolate in some packages. I planned to give it to my younger siblings tomorrow. Swanti would be very happy to have some,I imagined her smile before going to sleep.

Chapter 5: Henry Is Good.

Rumor travels fast,by the next day,all the neighbors had already known that I was to be married to Henry Charpil.

There was an uproar among many. When I went to town as usual, I got different stares,some being of envy,furry, anger and acknowledge from the older women.

“Look,she is still pretending to sell ghee,who is she trying to please with this act!” One young lady in the market ‘lightly whispered ‘,of course her words were meant to be heard by everyone.
” I guess the charpil’s were brought over by her act” another nearby woman said before the two laughed.

” Shiba my dear,don’t mind them,those two are always talking behind people’s backs. Everyone is already used to their actions.” The aunt who normally bought our products said.

“Madam Shelly,I really don’t mind” I said as I passed her the products.

Unbeknownst to me, someone had taken pictures of me in the market and posted them online informing everyone that I was the to be wife of Henry and there was a heated debate online.

When I arrived home,I was told that my father wanted to meet me,so I headed there.

“What did I tell you! Don’t go outside bringing shame to our family!look what these people are saying on-line!” My father roared as he showed me the conversation on his phone.

I really wanted to laugh in his face right now,what do you mean bring shame to our family? Hadn’t my mother and I been living off this very business for as long as I can remember!

“Dwanti,you also know that Shiba is new to the whole thing. Give her some days to adjust” wonga soothingly said as she patted my father’s back gently.

I guess the clothes I sent her last time did the trick,she winked at me to affirm her words behind my father.

I also wanted to ease my father’s anger,if he felt like that business was beneath our family now,what could i say.

“I am sorry,it won’t happen again,I didn’t know that someone was taking pictures of me.” I humbly said. My father’s anger seemed to have decreased.

“Go and reflect on yourself!” He said.

At midday,I had just finished taking a bath when I heard my mother calling me.

“Mum? what’s the matter?” I replied as I rushed to put on some clothes before going outside my room.When I was inside the house,I just dressed in baggy sweatpants and shirts.

Unexpectedly,I saw Henry sitting in our sitting room talking to my mother.Henry gently smiled when he saw me.

“Don’t mind my presence, I just came to check up on you. I hope the online discussion didn’t affect you in any way” Henry inquired.

“Not really” I slowly replied

“That’s good then,those people on line are insufferable.” Henry sighed in relief.

I immediately headed back in my room to properly get dressed,I was used to our traditional dresses.

When I came back downstairs,Henry was just leaving,my mother encouraged me to escort him so I did.

“No need for you to send me off” Henry said
“No problem,you are a visitor here” I said.
” By the way,you looked very good back then,I mean in sweatpants and shirt. You elevated that attire just by being you” Henry praised.

My face suddenly grew hot,I didn’t know what to say or do so I just looked down. Henry laughed at my reaction before he opened the door to his very expensive car.

“I bought you this phone,just use it for now,I don’t seem to have seen you with a phone?so I also registered the phone lines for you,there is only my number there,you can add any other numbers you want. I guessed it would be easier to communicate this way.”. Henry said as he handled me the phone case.

Although I wasn’t informed in some things,I knew that this was the latest iphone! I couldn’t possibly accept such a gift. That was too much,Henry had already given me more than enough.

Henry seemed to have guessed my intention to refuse “Don’t refuse,as my future wife,I will need you to only hold the most worthy things. Also I need to speak to you at most times.” He said.

I had to accept the phone at last and thanked him .He smiled and lightly laughed.
“I told you not to be reserved Infront of me,okay,ask for anything you want. I will make sure to give it to you,don’t ask me to give you the moon though” He said and joked.

I lightly smiled as I thanked him once again. He helplessly sighed and smiled before he bade goodbye to me.

I silently watched him drive off in a distance while carefully holding the phone box. This phone could cover my father’s treatment for good, I thought before entering into the house.

“Henry seems like a good man. Giving you these expensive gifts without hesitation?.” My mother said after examining the phone.

I gently nodded, according to my interaction and observation,he was well put together and articulate. He was always considerate and accommodating to me.

I immediately input my brother, sister and Tanti’s numbers in the new phone.

“This will be my new number from now on” I said as I talked to Tanti on phone.

“Henry is considerate” Tanti said.

“How about Zire,how is he treating you?you are still in your honeymoon phase right?” I asked

Tanti was suddenly silent before she sweetly answered” Zire is good,he was the choice I made,how couldn’t he be treating me like a princess!”

“Ewwee… That’s good,I love happiness for you” I happily said.

I heard a man calling for Tanti on the other side of the phone.
“Listen Shiba,Zire is calling for me,let’s keep in touch later” Tanti quickly said.

“Okay, quickly go ahead” I argued.
It seems as though Tanti and Zire were inseparable,I thought.

I then called my brother and sister who were happy to know about Henry’s actions.

I also think that Henry is the best choice,I will treat him well just like he does to me.

Chapter 6: The Wedding.

My father has been in a good mood for the past three days and that’s because he was given a job position in the government again.

He hasn’t stopped smiling since then,he asks me to eat with him and even told me to freely ask him for anything I want.

“You are truly a blessing Ada!look what you have made your father achieve,treat well that boy Henry” he said with a big smile.

I wasn’t surprised that it was because of charpil’s words that my father got his job back. Mr Musa Charpil was a well known super rich man who could have a seat besides the president of Muni country,some people said that the presidential campaign was funded by him.

His words were therefore final,if he suggested for my father to be in office again,then that would exactly happen.

My wedding was set to be two months from now but it had already been announced to the public.

I was also able to clearly get access to online news. Many people scolded me for being a nobody country bumpkin who only had to sell myself for money.

Others said that him being married to me was just to please his father’s wishes and he would eventually go back to his old ways.

They were right though,I was a country bumpkin. About selling myself,not so much,I would eventually get married one way or the other. It’s just that I had to get married to Henry who was from a wealthy background.

I would try my best to be a good wife and not put my family to shame. My father has also got his job back. I wouldn’t want to see him moody again.

During the two months period,Henry called me every night, asking me how my day went and how I am preparing for our wedding.

I always answered his questions truthfully and he also told me about his busy schedules as he usually traveled overseas for business appointments,went for Tv, radio and other internet interviews. He was a really busy man.

Days went by in a blink of any eye,more gifts that I couldn’t even remember had been sent to my door and I distributed them amongst our family accordingly.

Three days to my wedding day,Tanti and sima  came to  help with the wedding preparations.

Although the charpil’s had already hired experts for every specific task, having my best friend and sister here made me secure.

My brother said he would be there on my wedding day. I knew he was busy so I didn’t mind

“You lost weight?” I couldn’t help but notice Tanti’s change.
“This is common in the high class society,I couldn’t put Zire to shame, luckily you are already thin” Tanti said.

I couldn’t help but internally criticize Zire’s social class,I was thin because I couldn’t afford the food I always wanted to eat. Tanti knew it and she had never brought it up. Her bringing it up now shows that it was reality.

Will I also be subjected to such measurements? I silently felt a bit uncomfortable.

Sima sighed ” Tanti is right unfortunately,have you seen those people’s sizes?some can’t even give birth at their weight,but I think Henry isn’t biased” she said.

On the wedding day,I went through all the wedding processions,but because of the charpil’s status,I had to also engage in their other family celebrations.

My pictures were also taken, Henry said they would be hang in his family’s ancestral home. I didn’t have any objection.

Henry left and went to meet up with his friends. Tanti stayed by my side and my brother also showed up.

“Brother!” I tried not to seem excited as I called.
“Shiba” Ady called emotionally.
He then sat besides me.

“Tanti, congratulations,I wasn’t able to make it on your wedding” he said.
“No problem,I received your gift” Tanti smiled as she said.

“Halo,who could you be?” Zire asked as he approached us.
My brother slowly turned to face Zire.
“I am Ady, shiba’s brother” he introduced himself.

“Oh,I have heard about you,you were tirelessly working in the next town to feed your family,we love a hard working man! luckily you are now in luck.” Zire said.

I didn’t know why but Zire’s tone didn’t sound like he was giving a compliment,it was more like mockery.

“Ady,this is my husband Zire,Shiba,I will be back”  Tanti said as she stood up and indicated for Zire to follow her.  Zire cast another glance at my brother’s face before following behind Tanti.

My brother quietly watched them leave before turning towards me.
“Shiba,I want to say that if anything,and I mean anything bothers you with Henry,don’t be afraid to reach out to me. Don’t worry about anything else.” He said.

“Shiba? Is this my brother in law?” Henry interrupted our talk with a gentle smile on his face as he approached us.

“Yes,this is my brother Funa Ady” I said.

“Nice to meet ,I am Henry Charpil,Shiba will be in my care from now on” Henry said.

The two shook hands” I have heard a lot about you” Ady politely said.
“I hope they were all good things” Henry said with a grin.

My mother suddenly called me to follow her somewhere so I left my brother talking to Henry.

“Mother,where are we going?” I asked.
“Mrs Charpil wants to introduce you to some of the sister in-laws in the Charpil family ” my mother whispered.

It was here that I remembered Henry’s two older brothers. One was a renowned lawyer and the other was the city mayor.

When we arrived,Mrs Charpil and some two women who were dressed in untraditional fashionable and high class clothes were laughing and talking about something.

“Julie, Kelly this is Shiba. She will be Henry’s future wife. Shiba,these two are your sister in-laws” Mrs Charpil introduced.

I politely greeted the two, although we wouldn’t be staying together as women would go to their husband’s house, knowing each other was helpful.

Kelly slightly smiled and greeted me back,Julie gave me a pitying look? when I tried to read her face again,the look was gone.

“The three of you might meet in public or other social settings,get to know each other” Mrs Charpil said before she headed outside with my mother.

“So how did Musa even find you to arrange this marriage with Henry” Kelly crossed her legs as she asked while checking for something in her bag.

I discovered that it was an electric cigarette! I was beyond shocked,she could smoke? Not that I haven’t seen women that smoke but in Muni country, women were strongly prohibited from smoking! It was greatly frowned upon.

“I don’t know,I only met him at my friend’s party.” I slowly answered.

“You are such a lovely girl,I guess you can only blame yourself for being too good” Kelly added. I gave her a confused stare before Julie broke out in uncomfortable laughter.

“You are really brilliant and beautiful Shiba,that’s what Kelly meant ” Julie said,I kindly thanked her for the compliment before I helped pour each one of them tea.

Chapter 7: Sibling Talk.

After meeting with Julie and Kelly, Tanti came and informed me that my brother wanted to have a word with me.

I immediately went to meet him. He was standing infront of a pillar with a thoughtful look.

“Brother” I slowly called.

“Shiba,come,let’s take a walk around” He said as he slowly walked ahead,I followed behind him.

“Is something on your mind Funa?” I asked after I noticed his silence.

“I can’t seem to comprehend why a family like charpil’s chose you for a bride Shiba. I am not trying to say that you are not worthy but why?” Ady rhetorically asked.

I knew what my brother meant and I knew that he didn’t have any malice towards me.
I had also thought about it but I later gave up.

We silently walked around the garden and then sat down on a near by resting chair.

“Before coming to your wedding,I spent some money on a private investigator” Ady abruptly said.

I was slightly startled,what was my brother trying to investigate? was it the charpil’s? what if they find out? This wasn’t good!

I guess my brother saw the worried look i bore, he slightly smiled before sighing.

“You don’t need to worry about the situation, the private investigator I hired passed away,he had a car accident ” Ady absentmindedly said.

I was even more at loss for words.
“Whom had you hired him to investigate?” I slowly asked,I was hoping that it wasn’t the charpil’s.

My brother slowly turned towards me. “it was your husband” he said as he looked me straight in the eyes,his gaze simply implied that it wasn’t just a simple accident.

I don’t know why but my heart sunk,I convinced myself that it might have been just an accident. Even if the charpil’s were beyond wealthy, murdering someone couldn’t be without consequences!

“I am sorry,may his soul rest in peace,please don’t hire investigators next time. The charpil’s have been in Muni country for generations,I haven’t heard anything odd about them so far” I strongly suggested.

My brother simply nodded and suddenly held my hand,I could feel his rough and hard hands.

During that time when father had lost his job and sold some fields,money was needed for my brother’s education.

He would wake up early in the morning and work in the fields,feed the cattle and do all the hard work at home, before going to school.

In the evening,he could be so tired that he dozed off while doing his homework.
“I haven’t been a good brother to you Shiba” he said.

“what are you talking about! you are the best brother in the whole world! which brother tirelessly works hard for their siblings like you.” I quickly and confidently said.

“I wasn’t around you growing up.” He said as he blankly stared ahead.

“And I understand why you weren’t home!why are you suddenly like this Funa” I said as tears threatened to leave my eyes.

His self blame hurt me so much,it just reminded me of how incapable I was and further affirmed why I had to please my husband.

By just being loving and caring towards Henry, my brother would finally rest,my father had got his job back,his kidney transplant had also been scheduled, therefore, Funa didn’t have to tirelessly work like before.

“You have always been a cry baby Shiba,even when you were a toddler. you used to cry to me about everything. Don’t cry okay,I didn’t even say anything to make you cry” Funa said with a smile,I angrily pushed away his hand before I turned away from him

My brother just laughed and helplessly said “What stories are you making up in your mind now”

“None of your business!” I replied as I continued to face away from him. Accidentally,my eyes caught the figures of Zire and my now husband talking to other two men besides the window.

Henry turned towards my direction, lifted his glass of champagne and smiled before turning back to talk to Zire and the rest.

The other two men he was talking to also turned to our direction before turning back to continue their conversation.

My spirit didn’t like those two men for whatever reason. Their eyes and stare frightened me even more.

I turned back to face my brother but I found that he had also been looking towards that window’s direction.

He then slowly turned and smiled towards me reassuringly. ” If your husband doesn’t treat you right in any way,just give me a call okay?you know that I am physically strong to deliver some punches” he said.

I could only smile towards him,I could never let my brother fight Henry no matter what. With the charpil’s reputation,my brother could face years behind bars. Forget about it!

After talking for some time,I suddenly felt a chill.
“Let’s go back inside,it’s getting cold out here” my brother said.

We then left the gardens.
“You two siblings are close! ” Zire snickered as he said. I saw Tanti sharply look at him as if to warn him about his words.

Some young men and women in the upper class circles gathered around to watch the drama in excitement.

“What? don’t tell me that you can’t take a joke too? you women are no fun sometimes” Zire said.

“Shiba is leaving to my house tonight, a word of encouragement and goodbye from her brother should have been expected as he is rarely at home” Henry interjected as he headed towards us.

The spectating crowd quickly dispersed,
I suddenly felt comforted by his words. I didn’t think that such a Henry could be involved in any foul play in the investigator’s death as implied from my brother’s words.

I slowly smiled at him and thanked him for his intervention.
“We are now husband and wife,stop thanking me every time” Henry said.

“Brother in-law,please don’t take Zire’s words to heart,he has been drinking heavily and it might blur his sense of judgement ” Henry said towards my brother.

“It’s alright” My brother said.

“Then that’s good” Henry sighed.

The ceremony soon came to an end,I had to escort my parents and brother out of the door,before heading back inside.

Chapter 8: Wedding Night.

A car that I later got to know as rolls Royce phantom was waiting for us outside.

Henry helped me inside as Kelly, Julie,Mr and Mrs Charpil saw us off with smiles.
Henry then put the seat belt on for me before waving to them and driving off to his home.

I was slightly nervous,Henry put on some soothing music and told me to relax a little.

When we arrived at his house,I was once again surprised,this house would probably fit all houses of my father’s three wives and my 13 siblings and some space would still be left! The gate was so wide and tall that no one could see the inside even if they tried.

Henry  laughed at my surprised face,”My father told me that there was no need for me to build such a large house but I like wide spaces,also our children can play anywhere they like in future” Henry said with a meaningful look making me instantly blush.

The security guards at the gate quickly greeted us before the car drove in

Henry gave his car keys to another attendant who was waiting patiently outside,before he turned towards me.

“Shiba,you will be in charge of this household hence forth, tomorrow,I will introduce you to most of the work staff you will come across during your day to day living” Henry said.

I could only nod my head in acknowledgement, this house was so large that I didn’t know where to start ,but if Henry wanted me to manage it,I would try my best.

We then went inside,Henry immediately carried me off my feet,I cried out in surprise at his sudden action.

“My dear wife,why walk when I am around?” Henry asked. My face immediately became hot and I blushed in embarrassment.

“Put me down!what if some work staff see us!” I quickly said.

“They know the rules,they can’t be in this house after 7, so no one is in this house. Also,so what if they see us? you are my wife” Henry said as he led me into a big bedroom.

I could only let him do as he pleased,today was our wedding and he was my husband,there was nothing wrong with indulging him.

He proceeded to throw me on the bed,I was slightly startled by his actions,but I decided not to dwell on that when I saw him immediately undressing!

I had expected the intimacy but not like this! everything was going on quickly,I hadn’t even showered after all the walking during day.

“What? are you shy? I know it’s your very first time right? Don’t worry, I will be gentle” Henry said.

“I haven’t even showered?” I slowly said while facing down the mattress.

Henry was completely naked Infront of me and I was shy and surprised by his actions,I had never seen a naked man before,so I was startled and overwhelmed.

My mother had told me that Henry had been overseas and might have picked up some of those people’s ways,she had told me to  adjust to his habits if I found them a little bit strange from Muni’s culture.

Indeed,this Henry was strange to me,he was different from the smiling and amicable man I saw outside.

“Let’s go and shower together then?” Henry said.

I still didn’t face him as I stood up to go to the bathroom but I didn’t know where it was,I had to pause and I ask him for directions.

I heard Henry laugh before he strongly held my hand and proceeded to lead me to a certain direction.

“Okay, undress,let us take a bath together” Henry commanded.

I somewhat felt uncomfortable with his command, I have never showered with anyone else,even my own sister. Let alone a man? I just wanted some space and time to adjust,but I didn’t want to annoy Henry with my request.

I slowly started taking off my clothes until my undergarments were left.

“Take them off too,do you want to bath in those?” Henry asked as he looked at me.
I was suddenly at loss, should I tell him that I am uncomfortable?

As I was lost in thought,Henry quickly removed my bra and threw it in a near by laundry basket,I immediately covered my chest in disbelief.

“Listen Shiba, logically speaking,we are going to be husband and wife for a very long time,I am going to see every body part on your body and you are going to see mine. There should be no need for you to hide from me,look you can see every body part of mine now” Henry said as he spread his hands wide open and revealed himself to me.

I still couldn’t directly look at him though,I understood what he said and I knew he was right but I was overwhelmed by the speed and turn of events,that’s all.

Henry then slowly approached me again attempting to remove my underwear. I didn’t know what to do,if I released my chest,I would be exposed to him and if I didn’t,he would still remove the last piece of clothing I had on.

He proceeded to remove my underwear slowly as he studied my body closely. I could only look away in shame!

“You have a nice body Shiba,why even bother to hide it from your husband?” Henry said as he led me to the bath tab which was big enough to fit Five people.

Henry checked the water level and temperature before entering,he then tagged my hand,an indication for me to also enter.

I had no option but to quickly go in and adjusted myself to where Henry couldn’t see any part of my body apart from shoulders.

Henry chuckled before slowly approaching me.He carried me and made me sit on his lap,I tried to resist such actions but he tightly held me down.

“Okay stop resisting,I will help you take a  bath” Henry gently but angrily suggested.

I completely stopped my actions and let him do as he pleased.

He started squeezing my breasts gently and roughly at the same time which caused me some slight pain. His hand moved down to my private area before he started playing with me.

I felt his fingers entering me,which caused some pain but it later passed.

“See?not bad right?” Henry asked as he turned me around giving me a forceful kiss.

“Now Let’s proceed to the next step” Henry said.

I then felt his lower body half  try to breach mine but it simply couldn’t, this action was arduous that I simply couldn’t put it in words.

“Please stop,it’s very painful!” I slowly said.

“The pain will pass,just relax,you are just too tense” Henry said as he proceeded to force his body into mine.

How could I not be tense, everything happening now was my first experience, although I got lessons from the elder aunt, this didn’t apply to the physical thing! I was just feeling unimaginable pain right now.

Suddenly I heard a tear sound and so did Henry as he slowly turned to look at me, however,his lower half had finally entered into me and he didn’t stop his actions.I cried out in pain but this seemed to excite Henry as he roughly entered me at an unimaginable speed.

He then carried me out of the bath tub,when I caught a glimpse of the water inside the bath tab,I was suddenly terrified,blood could clearly be seen  inside!

“Since it’s your first time,this blood is normal,your elder aunt must have told you that right” Henry said as he led me into the bedroom again.

Of course the elder aunt had told me about such matters,what she hadn’t told me was the pain that came with being intimate.

The last memory I had before passing out was Henry’s continuous action of thrusting into me in enjoyment and excitement, I didn’t know whether he could see my distress or just chose to ignore it.

Chapter 9: Gossiping Staff.

The next morning,I woke up with headache and fatigue. Suddenly,I felt something wet on my forehead.

I raised my hand to touch it and found it to be a towel.
“You are now awake?” I heard a female voice say.
I turned towards her questionably as I didn’t know who she was.

“My name is Pearl, I am the family doctor,Henry called me saying you had passed out last night” pearl said .

I nodded in understanding as I tried getting up but I felt my bones ache,I had to lie down again.

“You are still a little bit weak but within a week’s time, you should be good to go. Thank God that tear wasn’t too much. Didn’t you learn anything about preparation from the elder?”.Dr Pearl asked

Of course I learnt those things but at what time would I put them to use last night. I could only stay silent at her question.

Pearl then proceeded to tell me what I was supposed to be doing during intimacy, the medicine she bought me,at what time to take it and how to apply it etc before leaving the house.

After some time,I heard a knock at the door.
“Come in” I said in a horse and weak voice.

The person on the other end of the door pushed it open before she entered,it was a slightly older woman.

“Halo madam Ada,I am Demilia Nous. I am the head of all the work staff in this house. Mr Henry told me to meet up with you after the doctor’s appointment. He said that he was supposed to introduce you to me and the rest but he got an emergency meeting and left” Demilia politely said.

It was now that I discovered Henry’s absence. I was slightly disappointed as I had hoped that he would stay around for a few days after our wedding.

Mrs Charpil had told me that for the first week of our wedding, Henry’s schedule would somewhat be cleared.

“Okay,let me dress up and meet you outside” I slowly said. Demilia nodded before closing the door behind her.

I slowly stood up to put on some clothes, however ,I felt like needles had been inserted in my thighs and legs causing me to slightly shake.

After properly getting dressed,I followed behind Demilia to meet the rest of the staff.

We took the elevator to where Demilia told me was the staff quarters.

“Good morning madam” A row of uniformly dressed women and men greeted.

I was slightly awkward as I hadn’t been used to such etiquette. I therefore politely greeted them back before Demilia introduced the different departments they worked in.

After meeting with the staff, Demilia then led me to the dinning table before she rung a small bell.

I was slightly startled by the sound but I quietly watched. A man and woman in uniform white suits and kitchen hats drove a small cart in.

There were several plates of different delicacies.

I simply couldn’t finish all this food. I therefore addressed my concerns towards the chef and Demilia.

“It’s because we didn’t know what madam wanted to eat so we prepared a range of delicacies” The chef said.

“Next time,just cook the usual breakfast,I don’t have many demands” I sighed as I said.

“Yes madam ” The chef answered in acknowledgement.

I then told them to leave as I wasn’t accustomed to people waiting on me to eat.

After the breakfast,I planned to just have some rest as I was still feeling weak. Surprisingly, Demilia was standing straight and waiting outside the dinning room.q

“why are you still here?” I asked.

“Madam I wanted to have a word with you” Demilia said.

“What is it?” I asked.

“Well,You are the boss and madam of this house,the way you talk to the staff matters,if you become lenient in any way,they will become disrespectful towards you. When it reaches that stage,you will no longer be able to control them” Demilia explained.

I just blankly looked at her, I didn’t see the need of being so strict towards the staff if they were properly doing their respective work.

“You don’t understand madam Ada,in this circle, people love, respect and fear power. If you show any kind of weakness,you will simply be trampled upon” Demilia sighed as she said before leaving.

I was left thinking about what she said. Did I really need to be strict towards the staff to prove my authority? I couldn’t do that no matter how much I thought about it.

I pensively went to bed until a short woman in Staff uniform woke me up to take my medicine and eat lunch.

I did as I was told,she then picked up the plate and went out. I couldn’t sleep so I decided to walk around the house.

As I was heading to the flower garden in the backyard,I heard some voices speaking.

“Did you see her in the morning? Just a country girl,whom does she think she can govern ha!” A woman’s voice was heard.

“By the time Mr Henry is done with her,she won’t have the energy to spend on us. You know his behavior Hahahaha” Another woman’s voice laughingly said.

“Don’t talk about Henry,walls have ears,he is the last person you should talk about. Remember what happened to Sophie?” A man’s voice suddenly interfered.

The two women speaking suddenly went silent.

“In any case,that Shiba or whatever her country name is shan’t govern me! I even heard that she didn’t complete school. She isn’t even on the status of the lowest worker in this mansion !” The woman said.

“I understand your frustration,but Mr Henry likes her, don’t do anything stupid you will regret ” The man said.

“What do you mean likes her!don’t make me laugh!Henry? liking her type? He is just with her to make his parents happy just look,he left to go motor racing with his friends after his wedding. I heard him on the phone!” The woman angrily shouted

“Lower your voice will you?if you are caught speaking about Henry,see if you don’t disappear ” The man said.

“By the way,I heard that her friend married Zire hahaha this is getting funny.These two just rushed to marry rich men without any research,but who can blame them,I was just like them few years ago. What did she see in him” The woman slowly said.

After hearing everything they said, I knew Henry wasn’t what he appeared to be,coupled with our wedding night,I had already been prepared to bare whatever comes with this marriage.

However,what I didn’t want to accept was Tanti’s marriage to also be lased with hardships!

“what is wrong with Zire?” I suddenly walked towards them as I asked.

The three people suddenly paled as they turned to face me,the man had a cigarette that was not allowed at work, he immediately dropped it and tried stepping on it, however,it was already too late as I had already seen it.

“Shiba!” The two women shouted.

“Call me Mrs Shiba Ada Charpil,I am the madam of this house! Now tell me, what is wrong with Zire and Henry?” I assertively asked.

“Speak I also want to hear what you have to say” Henry’s voice suddenly intervened.

I suddenly felt cold allover, I don’t think henry liked my question per his tone. When I turned towards the staff,they were already kneeling on the ground and shakingly asking for forgiveness.

I really didn’t know what to say or do at this time. I slowly turned towards Henry.

“You are back?” I asked.

Chapter 10: Warm and Cold.

Henry immediately told Demilia to process termination documents for the gossiping staff and warned all the others to be aware of the consequences that would follow if they did anything contrary to their contracts.

Henry then headed towards the bedroom angrily.

“Please, Madam Shiba, we know we were wrong. Please pardon us, okay?” one woman who was part of the three gossipers said.
What can I do? You brought this on yourselves. Your contracts are already terminated; I can’t do anything about Henry’s decision,” I said.

“No, no, you don’t understand! We don’t care about the termination! Please, just spare us, okay?” another woman said.

“What are you talking about?” I asked.

“We don’t want to end up like Sophie! She…” The man didn’t get to finish his words before he was roughly dragged away by the guards, and the other two followed the same fate as they screamed and begged for mercy.

I was slightly shocked by the guards’ actions. I knew that the three employees should have been escorted off the premises had they refused to leave, but being roughly handled like a bunch of criminals wasn’t necessary.

However, I got a new piece of information from them. It seems that there was an employee named Sophie who faced a terrible fate. I could try finding some information about her.

I slowly entered the room after the incident. Henry had just finished taking a bath.He was only putting on sweatpants and had a towel around his neck as he was talking on the phone.

“…As usual…I got to go…deal with the rest,” I heard Henry say to whoever he was talking to on the phone before disconnecting the call.

“Shiba, come here,” Henry called for me with his fingers.

I slowly and hesitantly walked towards him. When I was slightly in front of him, he immediately yanked my shoulders and held them tightly.

I felt some pain, but then remembered that I had talked about him behind his back; I therefore had to bear such distress.

“I am sorry; I didn’t mean to talk behind your back. They were talking, so I had to stop them,” I said.

Henry looked at me for some time before releasing my shoulders and slowly massaging them with a slight smile on his face.

“Well, just ask me anything you are curious about next time, okay?” Henry said.

I could only shake my head in acknowledgment, assuring him that such an act would never happen again.

“Are you okay now? You gave me a scare last night,” Henry said. After he mentioned yesterday’s incident, I blushed in shame and embarrassment.

Of course, I still felt some pain, although not as tremendous as last night. I think it was because of the medicine I took this morning.

“I am now fine,” I said.

“That’s good then,” Henry said before he left the room after his phone rang again. I sensed the distant and detached tone in his voice. It felt like he just perfunctorily asked; it hurt me a little bit.

Suddenly, my phone rang. I immediately picked up. It was Sima; she inquisitively asked me about my first time and the experience I had.

I couldn’t tell her that I had a terrible first time, nor could I reveal Henry’s camouflage attitude. This would make Sima worried, and my brother would, of course, know, leading to what I didn’t want to happen.

So I lied. She finally wished me a lovely marriage and informed me that Dad’s surgery would be scheduled for next week before bidding me goodbye.

I finally sank into thought. Henry appeared to be a polite and amicable person outside, and everyone agreed with that. His smile was always very blindly bright towards people, making them have a very favorable impression of him.

However, why did he suddenly change? Did I somehow annoy him? I silently reflected on my actions the previous night and indeed found that I hadn’t been cooperative. It was my first time; how could I suddenly become active and indulgent?

“What are you thinking about?” Henry said.

I was immediately startled out of my thoughts. “Nothing much. My father’s operation is scheduled for next week. I was on the phone call with Sima,” I said as I placed the phone I was still holding on the side table.

“Father-in-law will be fine. I don’t know why you worry so much about affairs beyond your capability. He now has the best doctors,” Henry sighed as he sat beside me.

“Listen, I wanted to take you to meet my friends tonight, but you aren’t feeling well, so I will meet them on your behalf,” Henry said.

“Okay, please send my greetings to them,” I replied.

“You are so understanding, Shiba; you are truly God-sent!” Henry said as he stood up and headed towards the wardrobe to change clothes.

When Henry finished dressing, he appeared grand and handsome. I didn’t even want to know the price of the watch he was wearing; I was surely a lucky woman to have married him.

“What? Are you suddenly stunned by your husband?” Henry seemed to notice my gaze as he chuckled.

I immediately turned my eyes away from him in embarrassment.

“I am your husband after all. I belong to you, and you belong to me. You can do anything to my body,” Henry said laughingly as he pinched my cheek and headed outside the bedroom.

After Henry left, I sank into thoughts again. Maybe I was thinking too much about the entire situation? My intuition told me that there was an anomaly surrounding Henry and this household, but my critical thinking told me to stop suspecting my husband for small things.

Henry suddenly became a complicated puzzle that I couldn’t piece together. His attitude was warm and cold, making it difficult to tell what he was up to.

I prepared myself for bed because I was exhausted from everything that took place today, and my body still hurt. Coupled with my thoughts, I was completely fatigued.

Chapter 11: Bizarre Family.

Birds were singing as a ray of sunlight leaked from the slightly parted curtains; it was the next morning. I turned around, but Henry wasn’t by my side. I remembered that he had gone to meet up with his friends last night; he might have slept over.

I took a shower and put on my clothes before going downstairs. Demilia was supervising the work of the chef as she ordered another lady to lay the table.

I didn’t have any work to do at home. I was planning to continue my crochet projects, as I was very good at them, but I was also afraid that Henry wouldn’t be pleased with my actions due to his status, so I had delayed acting upon it.

“Madam Ada! Good morning, come and have breakfast,” Demilia greeted me as she suggested.

“Good morning, Demilia,” I greeted back.

“The chef just made a simple breakfast, just like you requested,” Demilia said.I wanted to immediately tell her that the chef could just let me make my own breakfast, but I remembered that the chef also makes a living doing this work, so I stopped my actions.

“Thank the chef on my behalf,” I said as Demilia left.

Shortly after breakfast, I was walking around the flower garden when a young lady wearing a staff uniform informed me that I had received a package.

“What is inside?” I asked the lady.

“I don’t know, madam; it was tightly sealed,” she replied. I therefore headed towards the side room where a box could be seen.

“I found two pairs of gym clothes that I had always been seeing online, and I was slightly puzzled. Did Henry send them to me?” I wondered.

Not long after, I received a phone call from Kelly, who told me to meet up with her and Julie. She told me that the driver would know the location.

I therefore put on the gym clothes and a sweater as I told the driver what Kelly had told me.

Shortly after, we arrived at a very tall skyscraper, and the driver went into the underground parking.

“Madam, let me take you to Madam Kelly’s location,” the driver said.

“Okay,” I replied. I didn’t know where Kelly was, as it was my very first time coming here; any help would be appreciated.

We headed toward the elevator, and the driver quickly displayed a card, causing the doors to open for us.

“Only authorized people can use this elevator, mostly only the chaplains,” the driver explained as he led me upstairs. I slowly nodded in understanding.

“Wow, Shiba, you seem like a whole different person in these clothes,” Kelly said as she approached us after we exited the elevator. She was wearing a mini crop top that showed her cleavage and tight leggings, while her hair was tightly pulled up in a bun.

“Josh, thank you for bringing Shiba,” Kelly said as she handed Josh an envelope. I saw Josh grinning as he received it, telling Kelly that it wasn’t a bother before he left.

“Oh, I was still on live. Come let me introduce you to my followers,” Kelly said.

I was slightly hesitant; I wasn’t used to going on social media. The only account I had was blank.

Kelly gently held my shoulders before smiling brightly at the camera. “This is my sister-in-law; isn’t she pretty!” Kelly said as she talked to her followers. I wasn’t able to see the replies as I saw Julie also approaching us.

She was wearing a baggy sweatshirt with leggings; her attire wasn’t as revealing as Kelly’s.

“Shiba, come, welcome! Let me introduce you to our morning routine,” Julie said.

I gently smiled at her. “Hi! We are still on live! Shiba, my followers love you; introduce yourself…” Kelly grumpily said before Julie pulled me away.

“What live? Those are all horny men following you,” Julie said. I slightly blushed at her words. Julie always seemed like the type who wouldn’t say such open words, but clearly, she also had another side, I guess.

“We normally come here for yoga in the morning. Your access card has already been processed, so you can join us whenever,” Julie said.

“Okay,” I immediately agreed. I didn’t have anything to do; therefore, coming here would reduce my boredom.

Julie instructed me on how to properly do the exercises. Kelly later joined us after her live session.

“How was Henry?” Kelly suddenly asked.

“Okay,” I slowly replied.

“How okay? Was he rough, slow, etc.? I mean in bed,” Kelly straightforwardly asked. I was completely embarrassed and ashamed by her questions; I had never talked about such topics in the open.

Julie seemed to sense my awkward situation. “Let it go; Shiba isn’t used to talking openly about such topics,” Julie said.

“Well, let me tell you, his elder brother is a lost cause. He doesn’t make me feel a thing in that area, just like a dead horse,” Kelly rolled her eyes as she spoke.

I was surprised by her words; the way she talked about her husband showed that she didn’t love him in the slightest.

“Our marriage was a business arrangement; our two families had the same interests, so we got married,” Kelly said after noticing my inquiring gaze.

“Was your first time painful?” I suddenly became bold and asked.

“Not really; I didn’t feel anything-no pain or pleasure, nothing,” Kelly replied.

“Kelly! Listen, Shiba, did something happen on your wedding night?” Julie warned Kelly, who continued to roll her eyes as she asked me.

“Well, I had a tear and bled. However, the family doctor attended to me, and I somehow feel fine now,” I said.

Kelly and Julie were silent for a very long time.
“Well, that’s good; you are out of danger. Seems the curse of not pleasing women runs in the family,” Kelly said as Julie warningly glared at her.

“Oh! Not Julie’s husband, though. I heard that he is so vigorous in bed from outside,” Kelly chuckled before Julie stood up and left.

The atmosphere suddenly turned tense. When I turned towards Kelly, she just shrugged as she did some stretches.

I stood up and went to accompany Julie on the balcony.
“It’s alright; Kelly didn’t lie. My husband is just the way she described him; he slept with her,” Julie sorrowfully said.

I was slightly startled at the revelation. How could a brother sleep with the other brother’s wife? This was unheard of!

Julie suddenly laughed at my expression.
“You are still young and naive, Shiba. In this family, everything has no rules,” Julie said.

“What do you mean?” I asked.
Julie just shook her head desperately; she seemed as though she was tired and drained.

“Let’s go back to exercise,” she said.

Although the atmosphere was formerly awkward and tense, surprisingly, Julie and Kelly seemed to have put their last conversation to rest as they chatted and laughed amidst the training.

I was simply baffled and surprised; this family was simply bizarre.

Chapter 12: Stuck.

Three days passed by, but Henry hadn’t called me once. I would normally go for yoga with Kelly and Julie, then head back home. Sometimes, I would chat with my sister, brother, and Tanti to pass the time.

Today, early in the morning, I decided to call Henry and ask about his whereabouts. “Hello?” I said after the phone connected.

“Who is this?” a woman’s voice asked. I didn’t want to guess who the woman was because I was aware that Henry was a busy man; she could have been a secretary or staff.

“I am Henry’s wife. I wanted to talk to him. Is he around?” I said.

The woman was silent for some time before I heard some rustling sounds.

“Henry! Your wife is on the phone!” the woman yelled on the other side. I couldn’t hear what Henry said, but I heard sounds of laughter and a chuckle from the woman on the phone.

“I am sorry, Henry is somewhat busy,” the woman tried to sound apologetic, but her tone wasn’t.

“Okay…” The phone was quickly disconnected as I was speaking.

After the call, I went to the flower garden. The gardener was an elderly man called Kodi, whom I had also gotten to know. He would teach me how to trim and take care of flowers.

“Do you know that taking care of flowers calms and relaxes your mood?” Kodi asked.

“Not really,” I gently answered.

Kodi smiled, and folds showed on his face. “You remind me of my grandfather,” he sighed as he said.

“Oh, where is she now?” I asked.

“She passed away last year,” Kodi answered.

I blamed myself for my rushed words. “I am so sorry, Mr. Kodi,” I hurriedly said.

“No problem; things happen,” Kodi replied. “Let me teach you how to prune now,” he suggested before explaining to me how to do so in detail.

After that simple lesson, I sat down on a nearby stool as I watched Kodi continue his gardening.

Evening quickly approached. I had integrated with the staff, so I usually helped the chef in the preparation of some meals, especially my dinners.

The chef seemed to like the way I cooked traditional dishes, so he was usually attentive during cooking hours.

I completed cooking my dinner, and the chef immediately noted down all the necessary procedures I took to make it.

After supper, I washed up and prepared myself for bed. Deep in the night, I felt another person sink into bed. I was slightly startled and turned back, only to find it was Henry.

“I am sorry, Shiba. I couldn’t answer the phone this morning. My friends told me that you called?” Henry said as he immediately hugged me from behind.

“Did you miss me that much?” Henry asked.

“You weren’t in contact for three days; I wanted to check up on you,” I answered.

“I am lucky to have a wife like you, Shiba,” Henry said as his hand slid into my nightdress, pulling it apart.

Before I could tell what Henry was up to, he immediately thrust into me roughly. It was painful but not excruciating like the first time.

“You are so warm inside there, Shiba. I also missed you,” Henry chuckled as he spoke.

The elder aunt had told me to always play along with what my husband suggested in bed, so I simply allowed Henry to do as he pleased.

Henry rammed into me at an unimaginable speed as he tightly held my waist.

He then turned me over and climbed on top of me, holding both my arms tightly above my head. He roughly inserted himself into me again.

I eventually had a reaction, but I didn’t feel any desire in Henry’s eyes as we shared this intimate moment.

I felt shame and embarrassment, as it seemed like I was just a tool he was using for his relief and pleasure.

“Why are you so shy and blushing now?” Henry laughed as he asked amidst his thrusting.

Suddenly, Henry slightly lifted me up and held my face close to his chest as he continued his actions.

At some point, I felt suffocated and tried to tap Henry’s back, but it felt like he didn’t sense my indication at all as he continued his thrust and held my head tightly to his chest.

When I almost thought I would die from his actions, Henry let me go as he had finally reached his peak of pleasure.

“You are really the best Shiba,” Henry smiled as he left for the bathroom.

I was left coughing and breathing heavily, a reaction to the lack of oxygen. It felt like I was deep underwater and finally able to come to the surface again.

Maybe I was underwater and didn’t even know it yet? I pensively thought as I parted my chest and covered myself up.

I headed to another bathroom and cleaned myself. I was now truly terrified of Henry.

His lack of empathy and concern really evoked a sense of fear deep down in my soul.

I finally made the decision to investigate what the fired staff had said. I wanted to truly know who the real Henry was.

When I left the bathroom, Henry was also done with his shower. Although I was slightly afraid of him, I pretended to stay calm as I blow-dried my hair.

“My friends insisted on meeting you, Shiba. Let’s go meet them tomorrow, okay?” Henry asked from behind me. It wasn’t even a question; his tone suggested that he couldn’t tolerate any negative answer.

“Okay,” I answered.

“I knew you would agree! You are always supporting my decisions, Shiba,” Henry pecked my cheek as he said.

We headed to bed, but I couldn’t sleep. My mind was filled with different thoughts. I couldn’t talk about this matter to anyone close to me because I didn’t want them to cause a commotion or get in trouble with Henry.

I finally discovered that I was stuck in this marriage alone; my father wouldn’t tolerate any complaints about Henry, as he had now turned his life around.

I didn’t want to burden my mother, brother, sister, and friend with my issues.

It was therefore only up to me to solve my problems now, but I didn’t even know how to achieve that.

Chapter 13: Henry’s Friends.

We had planned to meet Henry’s friends, so on the following day, Henry dressed up, and so did I.

We had breakfast, and Henry told me to follow him to his car. He said, that he would drive us there.

The car drove straight on the highway; surprisingly, we parked at a mini airport. Henry told me, that we would take his private jet, as it was an island.

The pilot and an air hostess humbly greeted us. Our journey then resumed.

A phone rang, and I discovered, that it was Henry’s call. “Yes, I am on my way, okay, she is with me,” Henry said to whoever was on the other side of the phone before disconnecting the call.

“They are so eager to meet you,” Henry sighed as he said.

I wasn’t. I thought, with Henry’s camouflage attitude, I bet his friends must have been alike. After all, the saying, “birds of the same feathers flock together,” didn’t come out of thin air.

Wind blew by my ears as I looked outside the jet’s window into the ocean below. “Look, it’s over there,” Henry said, holding my shoulder as he pointed.

I saw a medium-sized island, and different yachts were harbored around it. As the jet landed, I saw a very spacious and modern house. Coming out of it were two to three ladies in bikinis and lingerie, giggling as they surrounded a tall man who held their shoulders.

I have never seen such a scene in my life. I was taught that a woman should always be covered up and that every part of her body was a treasure.

But where did that get me? I was being treated like every woman I was warned not to be.

“Henry! So this is our sister-in-law! What a cutie!” the man said loudly. I hesitantly stepped back a little.

“Mat, I was just here a few days back and decided to bring her over,” Henry laughed as he spoke.

“Shiba, come greet Mat; he is my childhood friend,” Henry said. I could only step forward and greet.

“Halo,” I calmly greeted.

“What?” Mat stretched his head towards my direction, an indication that he hadn’t heard my greeting.

“I said hello,” I replied.

“She is quiet like that; get used to it,” Henry joked.

“That’s how you like them, though,” Mat joked as he scanned me with his eyes, his gaze simply impolite.

The two laughed as they headed inside; I could only awkwardly follow behind them.

“Henry! Your back!” A tall lady in skimpy shorts and a crop top shouted as she tried to hug Henry, but he quickly stopped her. The girl then turned towards my direction.

“Where did you get this child?” the lady asked.

“What child? This is my wife, Shiba; this is Roka. We grew up together,” Henry said.

I somehow saw an angry, annoyed, and frustrated expression on Roka’s face.

“Hello,” I awkwardly greeted. Roka nodded towards me and headed back to her seat.

“Roka is still… tsk… tsk…” Mat said as he led the women in his arms to a large sofa.

“Where is Barron?” I heard Henry ask as he held my waist, leading me to an empty sofa.

“You know Barron; he is a lawyer, always handling those stupid cases. I wonder why he stresses himself when the outcome of those hearings is already determined,” Mat said as he picked up what appeared to be a bottle of alcohol and chugged it down his throat.

I heard Henry chuckle. “So he is in the conference room?” he asked.

“Yes, I couldn’t get him to come down. Even these models couldn’t move him. I wonder if he is… you know… downstairs… haa…” Mat said as he laughed. I didn’t like this conversation at all. What kind of friend group was this?

I had, however, prepared myself for the worst, so Mat didn’t even surprise me. I guess this is how the rich played. I hated everything about this place: alcohol, vulgar talk; I hated it all!

“How about sister-in-law goes and calls him? Let’s bet: if he agrees to come down, I will give you 2 million on the spot; if he doesn’t, well, just kiss sister-in-law right here,” Mat said as he excitedly glanced at me.

Henry simply smiled as he shook his head in what appeared to be helplessness. “Deal, but my wife is bad at directions; let me accompany her,” he suggested.

“Nope! What if you talk to Barron instead to cheat me out of money?” Mat said in refusal.

“Let’s just show her the way. I also want to see if that uptight man can be persuaded,” Roka said as she crossed her legs.

I really wanted to leave this place, but I knew that wouldn’t be possible. Henry turned to me; I could only look at my lap. What could I do?

“Alright,” I heard him say.

“Great!” Mat jumped up, almost tossing the table that held the drinks.

Henry also slowly stood up. “Shiba, follow me; let’s go and locate my hardheaded friend,” he said.

There was no other option; I had to follow them. Roka and Mat pointed the direction to me, and I turned to Henry. Maybe he could change his mind at this moment? I hoped.

“Go,” Henry said, using his hand to shoo me away towards that direction.

I therefore went through the corridor, nervously holding my dress tightly until I arrived. At this point, Henry and the others couldn’t be seen.

I proceeded to knock on the door. “I told you to continue your stupid party without me,” a cold and distant voice said.

“They told me to call you downstairs,” I slowly said.

There was silence on the other side for a second. I then heard footsteps approaching. I anxiously stepped away from the door; I had seen what kind of friends Henry made, and I simply didn’t want to associate with them.

The door was finally opened. A tall and imposing man in a well-tailored suit emerged from the door. He attentively scanned me with his eyes; however, his gaze was different from Mark’s. I could see that he bore no ill intentions.

“How old are you? What are you doing at such a party?” the man asked. I suddenly felt like a bad student in front of him.

“I came with my husband, Henry,” I timidly said.

“So you are his wife,” I heard Barron sigh as he said this.

“Okay, please send Henry my greetings. I still have work to do,” Barron said as he attempted to close the door.

I didn’t want to be kissed by Henry in front of everyone; I certainly wasn’t used to such actions.

“Henry’s friend put a bet of 2 million if you come down!” I shouted as he attempted to close the door. I thought that money could finally convince such a workaholic man.

Barron suddenly looked towards me, and I saw a bit of pity in his eyes before he smiled.

“Okay, let’s go,” he said. I finally sighed in relief.

“Sorry, I wasn’t able to attend your wedding; I was abroad at the time,” Barron explained.

“No problem,” I shook my head in understanding as I said.

Nothing would have changed even if he had attended our wedding; I wouldn’t have known about Henry’s character even then, I thought.

“You are too young. How old are you?” Barron asked.

“I am not young; I am 19 years old, turning 20 in a month,” I smiled as I said.

“Yeah, still a child,” Barron replied.

“What! Impossible! He came!” I suddenly heard Mat scream in disbelief.

Henry also curiously looked towards Barron before smiling. “Shiba has her ways,” I heard him say, but I had now memorized his tone. He wasn’t happy in the least.

“What are you guys up to now? Henry, I am sorry for missing your wedding,” Barron said.

“No problem; I forgive you. I know your busy schedule,” Henry smiled.

“Let’s go and have a seat,” Henry said.

We therefore headed towards the table. I didn’t know why, but Barron reminded me of my elder brother. I suddenly felt a little bit secure with him around.

The friends talked and laughed heartily, discussing this business, this and that country, where they would go for vacation next, etc. I was completely left out; after all, I had never left my town, let alone my country. This was the very first outing I had.

However, I noticed that Barron was always gazing at his watch, as though he wanted to leave. I, too, wanted to leave!

“Why isn’t sister-in-law drinking?” Mat asked.

I was suddenly startled. I had never drunk any kind of alcohol; how could I suddenly drink? “Sorry, I can’t drink,” I politely said.

“Shiba is so traditional; it’s hard to change that. Please be patient with her,” Henry smiled as he said.

“Aaaa, okay, just a sip. I promise you won’t regret it,” Mat said.

“She said she doesn’t drink; what don’t you understand?” I heard Barron sharply say. The atmosphere was suddenly tense; I could only awkwardly face the table.

“Okay, okay, no need to be so tight. Damn, why did I request you to come here?” Mat shouted.

“Mat is drunk, Shiba; don’t take his words seriously,” Barron said before he stood and left.

“Who does he think he is, always treating us like some brainless things? But doesn’t he work for us? Everyone works for us! Money, money, they are all hungry wolves!” Mat shouted.

It suddenly felt like he was talking about me and my family. Shame covered me as I looked at my lap.

“You are indeed drunk,” Henry said as he chuckled. They continued drinking. Suddenly, Mat kissed one of the ladies beside him; I quickly turned my eyes away.

“Are you really this innocent?” I heard Roka say as she mockingly laughed.

After about six hours of sitting beside Henry, he left to move around the mansion. Henry finally bid goodbye to Mat and Roka and told them to also inform Barron of our departure.

Chapter 14: Stand In.

We boarded the jet back home again. Henry had drunk some alcohol with Mat and Roka, so the driver was waiting for us on the other end.

Henry had slept, or so I saw, as he covered his eyes with a black eye mask when he was on the jet and in the car.

Demilia and the rest had already left, as it was already late in the evening by the time we came back. I therefore checked whether the chef had prepared supper.

The chefs were diligent; all the food that was prepared and stored in the warm food package.

“Henry, the food is ready. Come and eat,” I called. Henry had immediately used the nearby sofa as a bed. I guess the journey must have been exhausting. I also felt some fatigue, yet I hadn’t drunk anything.

“I don’t want to move; bring it here,” Henry said.

I guessed he was completely exhausted. I arranged the food properly before carrying it to where Henry was.

I placed it on a nearby table before I lightly tapped his hand. “It’s here,” I said.

“Bring me a bottle of liquor and wine from the bar cabinet,” Henry said.

“But you just finished drinking; it’s not good to drink this much, is it?” I inquired.

“Can you just bring what I told you to bring? I don’t want to listen to your lectures,” Henry raised his voice as he commanded.

I was slightly taken aback. I stood up and went towards the bar before bringing a liquor bottle and wine, together with the respective glasses.Demilia had already taught me all the house rules, so I now knew which cups, plates, and utensils were for each purpose, respectively.

“I bought them,” I said as I placed them on the table.

Henry finally took off his eye mask and sat upright on the couch. “Come sit beside me,” Henry said.

I obediently sat beside him. Henry then proceeded to open the bottle of liquor and poured its contents into the liquor glass.

“Now drink,” Henry said as he passed me the glass. I shook my head in refusal; I just didn’t want to drink liquor. I never have and didn’t feel the need to.

Henry smiled before he tightly held my cheeks and forcefully poured the whole glass’s contents into my mouth. Immediately, I felt sharp pain and an uncomfortable sensation in my neck. I tried patting his hands away in protest to no avail. Tears immediately poured out of my eyes.

“Who do you think you are? Are you better than anyone who drinks? You are just dirt,” Henry calmly said as he placed the glass on the table and repeated his actions of pouring the liquor into the cup.

“Smiling at other men outside like a whore, did you think that Barron would be enchanted by you? Now drink,” Henry said as he passed me the glass.

I didn’t want to, but Henry’s smiling face scared me to the core, so I took the glass shakily.

I heard Henry chuckle. “I have a story to tell you while we are at it,” he said.

“My father isn’t the one who chose you; I was,” Henry said.

I was suddenly confused. When the wedding agreement was finalized, Henry told me that his father might have liked me, hence why he chose me. What was he saying?

“You didn’t believe what I told you, right?” Henry rhetorically asked as he laughed.

“I once loved someone-shocker, right? The two of you seemed to have the same characteristics. Your shy and innocent face; she was traditional too. However, within a few days of this marriage, I discovered that you are nothing alike,” Henry said.

I was lost for words, so I was just an insignificant stand-in. I was so angry that I couldn’t even react. Suddenly, I felt like a clown.

No wonder I was able to marry into such a grand family. Those people online were indeed correct; I was just a country bumpkin. Who did I think I was? I immediately drank the liquor in two glasses-bottoms up.

“If I knew this would make you drink, I would have done it earlier at the party,” Henry said, laughing.

“Why didn’t you just marry her?” I suddenly said.

“You are in no condition to ask or even know. Remember, I now own you and your family. One wrong move, and your father returns the kidney he got,” Henry said with a smile. I really hated his smile now!

The difference between you and her, however, can be revealed. You are, how to put it, locally traditional? She was the essence of tradition and grace, with a touch of purity that I can’t put into words. One couldn’t look her in the eyes for too long,” Henry elaborated.

“I don’t want to know all about that! Shut up!” I angrily shouted. I guess the liquor gave me confidence.

I felt a loud slap land on my left cheek, connecting with my ear. Pain immediately penetrated my skin, and a ringing sound was heard in my ears. I held my face in pain and distress.

“You dirty scum of a whore can also tell me what to do?” Henry said in a low but frightening voice.

Henry then pulled me by my hair as he led me towards the elevator that led to our bedroom if one didn’t want to use the stairs.
“You even dared to call yourself the madam of this house; are you worthy?” Henry added.

I cried, screamed, and begged him to stop as immense pain shot through my body.

“Those servants were right, by the way; your status is less than that of any servant in this house. At what education level did you stop? Elementary? No wonder your thinking is less than a mustard seed. You actually had the guts to yell at me in my own house!” Henry said. The elevator finally arrived, and the doors opened. Henry immediately threw me onto the corridor floor as he removed the belt from his trousers.

“I will give you grace; no cameras are installed here, so no security servants will see what happened tonight,” Henry said.

I immediately saw his reaction of wanting to use his belt on me, so I quickly stood up and attempted to run. However, he was faster than me, so he immediately pulled back my hair.

“You are so traditional, right? Didn’t your parents teach you not to raise your voice at your husband, huh?” Henry asked as he immediately connected his belt to my back.

I had never felt so much pain in my life. Henry repeated this action many times that I lost count. Finally, I couldn’t take the pain anymore. The last thing I remember was Henry’s calm eyes watching me; it was as if my entire existence didn’t matter to him.

Chapter 15: A pillow for a change.

I felt like I had been hit by a truck; every part of my body hurt. I tried opening my eyes but found that only my left eye could do so; my right eye protested my order as it tightly remained shut.

“Finally awake?” I heard a female voice ask. When I turned towards it, I discovered that it was Pearl, the family doctor.

“You fainted; it has been three days now,” Pearl said.

I was suddenly startled. Three days? I tried recalling what happened after I fainted that night, but nothing came to mind.

“Listen, I am only going to tell you this because you seem like an understanding girl. Don’t get on Henry’s bad side, I mean at all; the outcome will not be good. Here, these are your medicines. Take them regularly, and you will be set,” Pearl said as she left the bedroom.

I was only left to sit in thought. The doctor didn’t ask who did this to me; she immediately mentioned Henry. Meaning she knew Henry’s character. I guess since she has been a family doctor for so long, she must know a lot.

It took almost two weeks for me to completely heal from my injuries, but the marks left behind by the belt hadn’t disappeared yet. During that time, I didn’t go downstairs, nor did I go to the flower garden. I now hated everything in this house.

Demilia would bring me breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, I didn’t have any appetite. Every time I attempted to eat, I was reminded that this was Henry’s food. I would have to pay for everything I put in my mouth or took from him at the end of the day.

I therefore lost significant weight in these weeks.

I sat on the rear balcony and started crocheting again. Since I was a country bumpkin anyway, I would do what I knew best, I thought. Suddenly, I thought about home. Although poverty struck, I was happy; my mother would teach me how to bake, and Swanti’s head would always stick around the corner at the smell of food. Although my father seemed distant, I understood that he loved his family; losing his job was a major blow. Tears almost left my eyes at the memories.

My phone suddenly vibrated, indicating a message. I stopped my crocheting and picked it up to check. I already had social media accounts now; although my page was filled with hate comments from Henry’s fangirls, there were some positive comments.

The message, however, wasn’t connected to any social media but came from an unknown phone number telling me to quickly find an exit in this marriage before I became the next Sophie.

I immediately tried calling the number, but it was not available no matter how many times I tried. I had almost forgotten about Sophie; I really wanted to know who she was.

I tried searching for Sophie online, but I didn’t get any results. It was obvious, as I didn’t know her last name. I therefore typed in “Sophie, work staff at Henry Charpil’s home” in the search engine.

Immediately after, I saw different articles talking about an incident. They stated that a young female servant at Henry’s home had been taken to a mental hospital due to some traumatic experiences she faced as a child.

She had come to work because of the impoverished situation at her home; her parents also confirmed that she indeed had mental health issues, and Henry was really a savior to them.

Henry was applauded for being a caring boss who supported his staff in every situation, as not every boss would spend money to treat their servants for lengthy periods of time.

I was suddenly confused. Was Sophie mentally ill after all, or was there something odd behind the scenes? I now understand that, with Henry’s connections, making up lies and making someone disappear was simple.

A shiver suddenly went down my spine.Suddenly, I remembered Tanti, my childhood friend. Was she also facing such a dilemma with Zire?

I therefore called her.
“Shiba, it’s been a long time. I tried calling you a few days back, but no one answered. Is everything okay?” Shiba asked.

“I am okay. How about you?” I asked.

“I am also fine. I saw Henry praise you on national TV yesterday, saying you are the best wife in the world; he couldn’t exchange you for anything, blah blah,” Tanti said.

Yesterday? I didn’t watch the news; thank God I didn’t. So Henry went as far as praising me on national TV? What was he playing at?I pensively thought.

“I didn’t watch the news,” I replied.

“Shiba, what’s wrong? I have been your friend for a very long time; I know when you aren’t happy,” Tanti said.

“Why wouldn’t I be happy? I am surrounded by wealth, my husband loves me; you saw him praise me on TV, didn’t you? I am very happy,” I laughed as I said.

“That’s good then. Don’t hesitate to tell me if anything is bothering you, okay? You know I am here for you, right?” Tanti said.

“I know. How is Zire treating you?” I hurriedly asked.

“How is he treating me…” I heard Tanti rhetorically repeat as she suddenly became silent.

“As he should, listen Shiba, I have to go. I will talk to you later, okay? Remember to pick up my calls at any time,” Shiba said.

“I will,” I said before Shiba disconnected the call.

I was suddenly at a loss; could it be that Shiba was also having a hard time? I hoped that it wasn’t as hard as mine. Mum always told me that marriage wasn’t simple, as different people had to adjust to each other, but with Henry, I simply couldn’t adjust to his ways.

Evening quickly approached. I took a bath and prepared myself for bed. I had just laid down when I heard the bedroom door open. Suddenly, I became stiff all over; I decided to pretend as though I was asleep.

“Already asleep? Demilia told me you were just preparing for bed,” I heard Henry say as he undid his pants. I heard the belt hit the ground, leading me to shiver in fright.

“Now, I know I taught you not to raise your voice in this house, but that didn’t mean that you should become mute,” Henry chuckled as his footsteps headed towards the bathroom.

I sighed in relief as I tried not to extend to his side of the bed. The good thing was that the bed was huge; it could easily fit 10 people at once.

After a few minutes, I heard Henry’s footsteps approach again. “Come help me with blow-drying my hair. I am tired from work. I had to give interviews everywhere I went. Did you watch the news?” Henry asked.

What could I do? I was scared of what my refusal would result in, so I left the bed and slowly approached him. Henry handed me the blow dryer while he was at it.

“Hm? Did you watch the news?” Henry once again asked.

“No,” I slowly shook my head as I answered, starting to blow-dry his hair.

“Always watch the news. What if something happens to your family? You shouldn’t want to miss that,” Henry calmly said.

This led me to shudder. What did he mean if anything happened to my family?

“I am your family after all, right?” Henry said as he held my hand and smiled at me through the mirror. I simply nodded in agreement.

“Did you lose weight? Listen, I like when you are at a medium weight. I don’t like you looking skeletal. I will hire a dietician tomorrow, follow his instructions, and add on some weight. You look sick,” Henry said.

After I was done with blow-drying his hair, I removed the blow dryer from the socket and kept it in the nearby hair accessories cabinet.

“Let’s go to bed then. I have missed you these past days,” Henry said as he took my hand and led me to the bed.

As soon as we landed on the bed, Henry proceeded to undress me and fulfill his desires. What changed was that he covered me with a pillow this time around instead of having me in a death hold on his chest as he endlessly thrust into me.

I think I fainted; I can’t tell. I had just healed from my injuries when he added such brutal actions. I wasn’t left with any energy to spare.

Chapter 16: Worthy sacrifice.

Apart from his brutal actions in bed, Henry hadn’t taken any further actions towards me, that is, regarding the belt incident, so I was somewhat relieved.

I tried as much as possible to stay away from him and remain silent whenever he was around. The dietician did his best in instructing me; I finally added on some weight, but it wasn’t that much. I saw the dietician smile in relief as he left for the day.

I went to the flower garden and saw Kodi, as usual, caring for the flowers attentively.
“Ah! Madam Shiba! It’s been long; have you been around?” Kodi cried in surprise.

“Just call me Shiba,” I remembered the way Henry mocked me for trying to establish any status in this house.

“How can I?” Kodi said.

I slowly sat on the usual stool I normally sat on as a ray of sunlight hit my face. I saw flowers of different colors shoot up as though receiving a rare gift.

“Why do you meticulously maintain this garden?” I suddenly asked.

“Haaa, I don’t know. I have been taking care of this garden for 10 years now. I heard that Mr. Henry specifically picked each flower in this garden and wanted each of them to be healthy without any blemish,” Kodi said.

I nodded in understanding; Henry didn’t seem to me like one who liked flowers, though, I thought.

“Did you know anyone named Sophie in this house?” I suddenly asked.

Kodi’s actions of watering some flowers stopped but then later resumed. “Madam, in this mansion, there are some things that we never ever talk about, and Sophie is one of them,” Kodi said with a sigh.

I didn’t want to burden the old man; he already had enough to worry about. I would find out all the details about Sophie myself.

The following day, the dietician didn’t come, so I planned to go for yoga with Kelly and Julie; it had been a long time since I last went.

When I reached the parking garage, the driver was just sitting in the car as though he was heading somewhere.

“Are you going somewhere? I wanted to meet up with Kelly and Julie,” I said. The driver opened the car door and got out.

“Madam, I was just going to deliver some documents to Mr. Henry; however, I was informed that you weren’t allowed to go anywhere for the time being,” the driver said.

“What do you mean? Who gave such orders?” I angrily asked.

“It was Mr. Henry, madam,” he said.

I finally felt listless; this house was really a prison to me. It was tightly surrounded by security,  the gates and walls were as high as the clouds. There was no going out of here!

The driver immediately sat back in the car and drove off. I went back into the house in a downcast mood.

In the evening, Henry returned from work. I was sitting at the dining table, drinking some green tea. The dietician said it was good for health, so the chef always prepared it for me every evening.

“I heard you wanted to go and meet up with Kelly and Julie?” he immediately asked as he sat opposite me at the dining table.

I was startled. So, the driver reported to him? He was his employer after all; he would report everything to him.

“Yes,” I said in a low voice. Suddenly, the tea became bitter; I just wanted to get away from this table.

“Why meet up with the two? Kelly is a whore, and Julie is a class apart from you. What are you going to talk about?” Henry smiled as he said this, as though calling someone such a name was as normal as drinking water.

“I heard you love crocheting. I will hire an expert tomorrow; let her teach you new tricks,” Henry said.

I immediately wanted to refuse; every offer he gave me would later be used against me. When I turned to face him and refute him, Henry was smiling as he picked up the coffee cup that the chef had brought him while looking at me.

Words of refusal stuck in my throat. I knew his smile; he had this smile when he was angry, sad, happy, etc. One couldn’t know what he would do next. I really hated this smile of his so much!

I could only look down at the table and pick up my teacup, but the tea was already cold. I forced myself to take a sip.

“Please bring dinner over; let me eat with my wife today,” Henry said.

Dinner was served; therefore, I couldn’t leave the table even if I wanted to. We ate our meal in silence until the end.

“Let’s go to bed, Shiba,” Henry said as he held my hand, leading me upstairs. I really hated this time of the day—bed! Bed! That was all Henry needed me for in this house. He was also never decent in his actions. I really hated everything about the bedroom, but I simply followed.

“Undress for me,” the dietician told me. “You’ve added some weight; let me see where it went,” Henry said as he scanned me with his eyes.

I simply did as I was told. After all, no one could know Henry’s next move when he was angered. He was a chameleon that changed colors wherever he stepped.

“Not a lot was added, but this will do, I guess. You will have to continue with the diet. Next week, there is a family press conference; you will be needed in attendance. We can’t have you looking malnourished,” Henry said as he approached me. I tightly held my shoulders as he pushed me against the wall opposite my direction.

He proceeded to part my legs and undid his pant zip and belt. His organ immediately came to life. He used his left hand to tear my underwear apart, which caused some pain in my lower waist before inserting himself in me.

“There is another thing I like about you: your body. It was just made for me,” Henry said as he continued his intimate actions, leading me to the bed.

I let him do as he pleased.

“You are just like a dead branch; can’t move? What did your mother teach you? But that’s also good, I guess,” Henry said as he tightly held my neck in a choke hold and roughly buried himself in me.

My breath was faint, and my head felt suffocated. My thoughts wandered: if I were given a second chance, would I still have chosen Henry? Probably. My brother is no longer working himself to death because of our family; my father has been nursed back to health and now has his job back. Everyone at home is happy.

I was truly willing to bear this sacrifice. Even if I were given a second chance, after all, my life started with my parents. If it were to be spent because of them, then it would be worth it.

Chapter 17: Not Special.

Henry stayed true to his words. The next day, someone came in. It was an elderly lady who told me to address her as Grandma. She would be in charge of teaching me every crocheting and sewing technique in the book.

Different equipment was bought, and a room was arranged where we would spend our lesson periods.

“Mr. Henry really adores you. Which husband can buy all these expensive equipment if the wife likes them in this day and age?” Grandma said.

I simply stood by as I let the equipment operators station them in an orderly manner. As for Grandma’s words, I chose to ignore them. Henry showed people what he wanted them to see; the outside world would never find anything amiss with his character.

Grandma happily laughed as she held my hand, leading me to a certain machine. “This is an electric sewing machine; it’s far more advanced than those other sewing machines. I have always wanted to use it! What an honor,” she said.

“Grandma, go ahead and use it,” I gently said. It would be better if she took it away too.

“What are you talking about? I am here to teach, not fulfill my fantasies. Come, let’s start on today’s lesson,” Grandma said after everything was properly arranged.

I told Demilia to ask the chef to prepare tea, some snacks, and food for the elderly; I knew the lesson would take a very long time.

“Look at you, so attentive! No wonder you were able to marry into such a big family. Come, sit,” Grandma commented.

I bet she would be surprised, or not, if she knew why I married into such a family. I sat down beside her, and she started her lesson.

In the twinkling of an eye, it was already midday, and refreshments were brought. We drank tea and had some snacks in between small talk.

“You seem to already know everything about sewing and crocheting?” Grandma noted.

I smiled. “Of course I know how to do such things; it’s all I did growing up,” I said.

“During my time, that’s what most women did; now all of them are in big offices. This practice is almost dead,” Grandma said as she sighed in nostalgia.

“My son can’t seem to find a wife. If I had known you before…” Grandma said with another sigh.

I guess my father would also agree if he had more money and status than my sister’s husband, I thought.

Sometimes I wondered whether my life’s main purpose was marriage. If I could personally choose, I would become selfish and ignore everyone in my life.

I could choose freedom; I could choose to be free like a bird, sailing on the lakes and rivers of the world, but that wasn’t possible. I simply couldn’t bring myself to do that.

In the evening, I requested Grandma to eat some simple dinner, but she hurriedly refused, saying her daughter was coming home.Her grandchildren would be present too; she needed to cook for them. I couldn’t urge her further, so I escorted her out.

Grandma was good at what age did I learn some new techniques that I wasn’t aware of. My mood was calm at this very moment.

Henry didn’t come back that night, but he called, telling me that he had to travel abroad for about three days. He then asked me how I liked his gift. I thanked him and wished him a safe journey before the call was disconnected.

I happily smiled and chuckled as I prepared for bed. It felt like a heavy burden had just been lifted off my chest. I prayed that he would stay wherever he had gone forever.

When I saw those comments from Henry’s fangirls, saying I stole their national prince, I simply shook my head. How I wish they knew who he really was; even then, I never wished any lady to go through what I was going through.

Grandma continued to teach me everything she knew in those days.
“You seem more vibrant and happy these days, just like my mischievous grandchildren,” Grandma laughed as she commented.

“Really?” I asked.

“Yes, however, that’s also good. At your age, you are supposed to be happy and merry,” she added.

I suddenly remembered that my 20th birthday was coming up. Mum usually baked cakes for me on every birthday; however, on this very one, she wouldn’t be around.

As Grandma continued to teach me, I suddenly felt something on my shoulder. When I turned to see what it was, I first saw the wedding ring on the finger and knew that Henry was back. I suddenly stiffened.

“I see you are enjoying the lesson. Did you miss me?” Henry asked.

“Grandma, how is my wife doing?” Henry inquired.

“You’re back! This boy, you chose a very good wife; she cares about others and learns well!” Grandma smiled as she said.

“Well, she is the best wife in the world,” Henry said.

I stayed silent during the entire conversation; one was genuine in her words, while the other was as fake as his smile.

“Let me leave you young people alone,” Grandma said as she left the room and closed the door behind her.

Henry then surveyed the room and inspected the equipment. “You are really talented, Shiba. I am so lucky to have you as a wife,” Henry said as he removed his coat.

I swallowed back my retort and just fiddled with the thread as I tried to insert it into the sewing machine.

“Why does it seem that you were smiling brightly before I entered the room, but now you suddenly seem dull?” Henry asked.

“Shibaaaa, why are you so draining? Hm, just be mature. Alright, I am sorry about what I did that night. I was angry at Barron for looking at you. See, I really have feelings for you,” Henry said as he scooted beside me and held my thighs tightly, turning me in the chair to face him.

I could only stop my actions as I looked towards him. What was he playing at now? I wasn’t an airhead like his fangirls; I could think critically. I knew this man wasn’t okay; he might have been mentally ill or something. No normal person acted like Henry, at least among the normal people I had been around.

I really wanted to ask him if he was okay or needed help, but I knew he might become offended and inflict pain on me.

I then felt his hands slide inside my skirt as he lifted it up. “Let me show you my love,” I heard him say. It seemed as though he was talking to someone else; the longing in his voice couldn’t be hidden. I also knew that it surely wasn’t meant for me. Could he have been thinking about his first love?

Henry then proceeded to hold my face and press it against his groin area as he rubbed himself on me.

“I will teach you something new today,” Henry said as he undid his pants.

He then rubbed himself against my lips as he commanded me to open my mouth.

Immense anger overshadowed me after knowing his intentions. This man just saw me as a stand-in, something to use for his desires. He inflicted pain on me, and I immediately refused to obey his orders. I wasn’t going to follow his demands!

If he wanted to beat me up again, then let him; that would be better than being used as a tool.

“Oh? Finally grew a backbone?” Henry slowly chuckled as he said it. I knew that was his sign of anger; surprisingly, I didn’t care.

Henry immediately slapped me hard, causing me to fall off the chair. He then proceeded to lift me by my hair. “I said, open your mouth,” he slowly commanded.

I tightly sealed my mouth in protest. I heard Henry lightly laugh before he punched me in the face while still holding my hair. “Still not complying?” he asked.

I had already chosen the worst; he could kill me if he wanted. I wasn’t going to be a slut he used in any way he desired.

Henry then let me go, and my face hit the ground. I then saw him immediately step on my face hard. I think I heard my jawbone crack.

“I think now you can open your mouth,” Henry said before picking me up and pressing me against the wall. I didn’t have any more energy to protest, and I only felt pain in my entire face.

Henry then held my face and forcefully inserted himself into my mouth. I felt more pain shoot into my throat and jaw. I attempted to bite, but I discovered that my jaw simply couldn’t comply.

Henry tightly held the back of my head as he used my mouth just as he did to my private area, in a brutal and cruel way.

“I told you, you are not special; nothing about you is interesting. Get that into your mind. Never protest against anything I tell you,” Henry said as he continued his actions.

I had lost count of how many times I fainted. It was in this mansion that I first fainted. Even in poverty and hunger, I had never experienced this level of agony.

Chapter 18: Birds have a limit  of flight.

When I woke up, a neck holder was around me, my head was bandaged, and a medical drip was hung up, leading whatever was in into my system through the tubes.

I slowly squinted my eyes and saw Henry seated in the left corner and Pearl on his right-hand side. “There is a press conference in a week’s time; fix her,” I heard Henry say.

I slowly turned towards the window on the right side corner. The sun was bright and up; I heard birds singing in the distance as the wind tussled the curtains. I wished I was like those birds; I could fly high above. A tear slowly crept down my eye.

“Awake?” I heard Pearl ask.

I simply ignored everyone in the room. I knew I was a prisoner here; Pearl couldn’t provide any compassion towards me. After all, she was this family’s doctor; she reported to her bosses, and obviously, I wasn’t.

I heard the door close, an indication that someone had left. I hoped that both of them had left.

“I told you not to get on Henry’s bad side. Nothing good comes out of it! Why don’t you listen? You seem like an understanding girl,” Pearl voiced.

I just blankly looked at her. Which bad side of Henry did I provoke?

When Pearl saw my state, she immediately stopped her words.

“Your injuries aren’t life-threatening, thankfully. Only part of your jaw was dislocated; it’s been put back in place. The bruises on your eye and neck will fade away by the time the conference approaches. The only issue will be speech; your vocal cords were affected, but they will get better in about two weeks,” Pearl explained as if I should feel relieved about the situation. I just ignored her as I once again faced outside the window.

I heard Pearl sigh before she also left the room.

Evening arrived. I was informed by Demilia, who brought me some light food, that I had been unconscious for about two days. I simply thanked her for the food; I now simply didn’t care.

The medical drip was almost done, so I sat on the bed and watched the sun sink down in silence.

The door opened, indicating that someone had entered. I didn’t even turn around; whoever had entered could sort themselves out. I didn’t have patience for anyone in this house anymore.

I heard the bed sink, a sign that someone had sat in it. “Demilia said that you will be okay by the time the conference approaches. A tailor will come around to take your measurements for the conference clothes. I know you will be the most stunning,” I heard Henry say.

“I wasn’t in my right mind last time, Shiba. I had some major problems at work; that’s what led to such actions,” Henry sighed as he spoke.

I internally sneered at his words, but I agreed with one of his sentences: he wasn’t in his right mind. He was a total lunatic. Maybe he wasn’t; maybe that’s how he actually was? I didn’t even know, and I didn’t want to know.

I simply wanted to be as far away as possible from Henry. However, I didn’t know how to achieve that.

“Pearl told me your speech was also affected? It’s okay; there is no need for you to speak on that day,” Henry elaborated.

Even if I was able to speak properly, I didn’t want to have any part in the Charpil family’s affairs.

A phone call interrupted Henry’s next words, thank God! He then stood up and left.

Demilia would come to check on my situation and apply medicine to my injuries where needed every morning.

Five days passed in that routine. Henry hadn’t come to bother me in my sick bed, and I was thankful for that. The tailor came to take my measurements on the fifth day; it was a slim man with glasses. One couldn’t see his eyes clearly behind them, and I was also not interested in speaking to him at all.

“What a perfect figure! It fits my every fantasy of a fitting dress I had in mind. I will be sure to make you the most dazzling,” I heard him say.

I only blankly glanced outside the window as he took the measurements; I didn’t care how I looked that day.

“You seem so quiet,” the man said as he wrote what I assumed were measurements in his notebook.

Why wouldn’t I be? My vocal cords were damaged. Even if they weren’t, I didn’t have the energy to spare on anybody.

“Great! I am done,” the man said as he packed up his belongings. He then headed towards the door; he almost ran into Henry, whom I didn’t want to see.

“Jal, are you done with the measurements?” I heard Henry ask.

I slowly moved and sat by the window. I had recently developed a habit of watching birds; I loved their singing.

“What is so interesting outside?” I suddenly heard Henry ask as he leaned his chin on my shoulder, also looking outside the window. I guess he had finished his conversation with the tailor.

I simply ignored him and silently continued to watch the birds. I knew that there was a conference in five days; he wouldn’t lay his hands on me if he didn’t want the outside world to know.

“Hm? Birds? Did you know these birds fly high, but they have a limit to their flight? I heard that they could face some problems if they flew higher. Interesting creatures,” Henry chuckled as he commented.

Henry then proceeded to go to the bed where I was nursing my health and sat down. He picked an apple from a nearby plate full of fruits and peeled it with a small knife that was beside the plate before putting the peeled fruit in his mouth.

“This apple is fresh! Hi, what do you think if we put on matching clothes on that day? I was thinking about that for the past three days,” Henry faced my direction as he inquired.

“Oh, I forgot, you can’t speak yet. Alright, let me leave the arrangements to Jal,” he added as he fell on the bed, his back connecting with the bed cover.

I felt my skin crawl; I didn’t want to sleep in that bed anymore.

When Henry left, I immediately changed the covers and asked Demilia for others. I then covered myself and silently thought about Henry’s words.

I knew that he was hinting at something. Was he afraid that I would attempt to run away when I was outside? I silently laughed; where would I go if I ran? Home? My father would personally send me back.

Brother? I didn’t want to ever burden him; he was now having a breather. It wasn’t worth it for me to add to his burdens.

Three days quickly passed by, and just like the tailor had said, my clothes were delivered exactly that day.

I was told to try them on for feedback, which I did. The assistant took my picture and sent it to Jal before confirming that it fit, then left.

“Wow, you are really mesmerizing, Shiba! I can, for a fact, tell you that you will be the star of the day,” Henry clapped his hands as he smiled and walked towards me.

Henry then turned me around by my shoulders, examined my face and jaw, then sighed.”Well, I will personally introduce you to the public that day; they are dying to meet you,” he said before leaving the room.

I then tried to remove the dress but found that my hands were shaking. I tried holding myself to stop the subconscious action, but I failed.

I didn’t know why I was shaking. Was it disgust at being touched right now? Was it fear? I didn’t have the answer to my thoughts, so I silently sat until my emotions cooled down.

Chapter 19: Press Conference.

The day of the press conference, I could somehow talk, but it hurt to do so. I was also not planning on speaking. I had just finished dressing when I saw Henry enter the room.

“I think you are now healed. From today, return to the main bedroom,” Henry said as he massaged my shoulders. My body immediately shuddered in protest. I heard him chuckle before he sat on the bed.

“I will praise father-in-law for having such a caring daughter like you, Shiba, so just simply smile at the conference. I only ask you to smile, okay?” Henry slowly asked. I knew that when his tone sank that low, his insane nature was threatening to come out.

I simply nodded at his words. Henry smiled as he stood up to leave.

“Let’s have some simple breakfast and meet up with the rest,” he said as he closed the door behind him.

After some time, I went downstairs. However, I didn’t have any appetite; my throat also hurt when I swallowed, so I decided not to have breakfast.

Henry had already finished having breakfast. He told me to follow him. The driver was already waiting for us in the garage.

“Hello, sir, please,” the driver greeted us and opened the door for us. He then closed the door before sitting in the driver’s seat and starting the car.

“Why are you sitting so far? Come close,” I heard Henry say before he pulled me to him.

I saw the driver peek at us through the dashboard mirror before quickly looking away with a smile.

I wondered what theories he pictured in his mind. My body was stiff all over as Henry hugged me and slowly stroked my hair.

“You are really stunning today; I am not telling lies,” Henry smiled as he said, looking at me with what appeared to be loving eyes.

I wanted to tell him to shut up; I didn’t like his smile and touch! I finally discovered I didn’t like anything about Henry!

The car soon approached the venue. I assumed that the cameramen would be surrounding the area, but everything was organized and in order.

The driver opened the door for us. I heard cameras go off as Henry led me west, smiling brightly at the cameras and the reporters.

“Henry!” I suddenly heard a loud scream. I turned and looked in that direction and saw a young girl; I assumed she was about 15. Well, she looked young.

Henry smiled before he led us in her direction. “Where are your parents?” Henry asked.

The girl was blushing non-stop and didn’t answer the question. I then saw a man with a round belly running toward us.

“Quin! Why did you run all the way here? I am sorry, sir; my daughter watches everything about you! When I was coming to the conference today, she asked to tag along. I didn’t know she would go out of line,” the man explained.

“No problem, she is still young after all. Go on with your dad, Quin,” Henry gently smiled, but I had now mastered his smiles. Right now, he was showing impenitence and disdain toward the father and daughter.

I wanted to warn the girl not to just randomly like anyone on the internet, but I couldn’t; cameras were right in my face.

Even so, the girl bore an infatuated look. I didn’t think I could say anything to convince such a person, so I simply faced ahead.

The father and daughter left, and then we headed inside the venue. More cameramen were already inside and had their seats. It was my very first time seeing Henry’s other two brothers.

Kelly and Julie immediately stood up and headed our way, smiling. “Shiba, you really escaped from us; you no longer come for yoga,” Kelly said as she pushed her hair behind her ears, her manicured long red fingers showing.

“Shiba is now concentrating on sewing and crocheting; where would she get the time to go for your meet-up?” Henry said with a fake smile.

“Really?” Kelly assertively asked, facing my direction.

I smiled as I shook my head in acknowledgment.

“Shiba recently developed a cold; please forgive her for not speaking today. She has just been on medication,” Henry said.

Julie silently looked at me for some time. “Let’s go ahead; father-in-law is waiting,” she said as she tugged at my hand, but Henry forcefully held onto me.

“Do go ahead, Julie. I will lead my wife there,” Henry smiled at Julie as he spoke. Julie awkwardly let my hand go as she moved ahead.

“How did you become Julie’s friend all of a sudden? You only spoke once? Twice? But you have your ways; after all, you are the most charming wife in the world,” Henry said beside my left ear with a chuckle before he led me further ahead.

“Brother!” Henry called, this time releasing me and hugging his elder brother before turning to his other brother.

“Shiba, this is your eldest brother-in-law, Kain Charpil, and second, Trent Charpil,” Henry said. I simply gave them a small nod as Henry explained to them that I had a cold.

I saw Kain scan me. “So this is my sister-in-law? Wow, Henry, you weren’t lying when you said you found a unicorn,” he chuckled as he said it.

The three brothers smiled as the cameras flashed away. “These children, you don’t have any respect for your elders!” Musa Charpil scolded as his wife smiled.

Henry led me to them and explained my situation. I nodded towards the couple as they wished me good health.

The press conference then officially began. He started off by introducing the entire family and me, who had become a new member and therefore family.

The cameramen asked many other questions that I didn’t care to know the answers to, which the family answered one by one.

One hour passed in this situation, and the press conference was coming to an end.
Suddenly, there was commotion outside the venue, and then I heard shouts from cameramen calling someone repeatedly.

“Lilly? She’s back?” I heard Julie whisper under her breath beside me on the left side.

I was confused. I then caught a glimpse of Kain smirking as he looked towards the entrance.

A very beautiful, thin girl with a bright smile and a straight but weak walking posture walked in amidst the excitement and questions from the cameramen. She was wearing a white dress, and her saint-like aura was blinding.

Chapter 20: Lilly.

The lady headed in our direction. “Uncle Musa, Aunt,” she gently smiled as she called.

“Lilly! We thought you had traveled abroad for good!” I saw Musa smiling happily as he stood up to hold Lilly’s hands tenderly.

Mrs. Charpil also held her hand as she made her take a seat in the empty seat beside her.

“The conference is over, please retreat,” I heard Mr. Musa say. How could the cameramen object to his words? They simply packed up and quickly left.

“Tell me, how are you back?” Mrs. Charpil asked.

“Well, my medical condition was treated; I am fine now. I simply missed Muni, so I came back,” Lilly gently said as she looked around.

“You must be confused, right? That is Henry’s wife, Shiba,” Mrs. Charpil introduced.

“Henry, it’s been long,” Lilly said with sad eyes.

I saw Henry quickly stand up as he headed towards Lilly. “I thought you had completely left Muni for good,” he said as he sat beside Lilly.

I finally connected some dots. Isn’t this the girl Henry told me about that night? His first love? I internally chuckled. So, Henry could be this attentive and caring? It was really amusing.

“I thought so as well, but nostalgia for Muni overpowered my father’s orders for me to stay abroad,” Lilly said.

“Did Uncle come with you? How could you be here alone?” Henry worriedly asked.

“Dad is still handling some affairs abroad, but he will soon return,” Lilly gently smiled at Henry.

“I will drive you home. You have always been in poor health; it’s not good to come out alone,” Henry said.

It’s as though he couldn’t properly think. Did Lilly come here on foot?

“I had just come to pray near this place when I heard that Uncle was here. How could I then go home without passing by?” Lilly elaborated.

“Henry has always been worried about you since childhood, and so are we. Let him escort you home, but not before you pass by our house!” Mr. Musa said.

Lilly gently smiled. “I will follow Uncle’s arrangements,” she said.

“Brother Kain, Trent, how have you been doing?” Lilly weakly asked.

“Good, of course we were good, but little Lilly wasn’t around, so we were downcast,” Kain said.

“You are still a comedian,” Lilly noted, causing the brothers to laugh.

“Welcome back, Lilly. It’s indeed been long,” Julie said.

“Julie, Kelly, how have you been?” Lilly asked.

Kelly and Julie smiled as they told her that they were doing great and everything at home was fine.

“Let’s go home  first,” Henry said.

I saw Lilly slowly glance in my direction. “What about your wife?” she asked.

Henry smiled; he didn’t even look my way. “Shiba is an understanding person. The driver will take her home; she doesn’t mind such a small thing, right, Shiba?” he said as he suddenly turned to face me.

I nodded in agreement. He was right; I didn’t want to be in his presence at all. I was even relieved that he wasn’t tagging along back home!

I noticed Lilly’s hesitant expression before Mr. and Mrs. Charpil stood up to leave and urged the rest to do so too. They stood up and followed behind them, and so did I.

I saw Henry gently lead Lilly away. So, this was the woman who was worthy? He was indeed right; I couldn’t speak like Lilly. She even used a foreign language in between her sentences. I didn’t know any other language apart from my own. However, I didn’t mind; in Muni, a man was allowed to marry more than one wife.

I hoped that Henry would marry her; if that happened, maybe I wouldn’t have to face his anger and resentment for not being his perfect lover.

I turned to head towards the car. Out of thin air, I saw a cameraman approach me with his microphone. I was startled. Didn’t Mr. Musa tell all of these people to disperse?

“Mrs. Shiba, why didn’t you leave with the rest of the family?” the cameraman asked. Of course, I didn’t answer; my throat hurt if I talked, so I tried to dodge him and continue to the garage, but he blocked my way.

“Now that you are married into such a big family, I guess you despise us poor people. You can’t even speak to us?” the reporter continued.

This time, I gave up. I let him say whatever he wanted. I decided to go back inside the venue, but I saw the driver running towards me before shoving the cameraman away.

“Who are you? Who gave you the right to interview the madam? Security will escort you to the police station; you will bear the punishment for not listening to Mr. Charpil’s words!” the driver said.

I saw the cameraman look towards my direction in resentment and anger, but then he smiled and let the security escort him away.

The driver then told me to follow him towards the car. He opened the car door for me, and I sat down.

“I am so sorry, madam. I was informed a few minutes ago that I would drive you home,” the driver explained.

“No problem,” I said. As he drove me home, I looked outside the car window. I envied all the women I saw walking on the streets; at least they were free. Whatever problems they had, it was still better that they had their freedom.

When we reached home, I directly headed towards the bedroom to wash and change clothes. Henry’s touch still lingered on my body, making my skin crawl.

As I was blow-drying my hair, notifications rang on my phone during a marathon. I was slightly confused, so I picked it up to check.

Under my social media page, I saw numerous comments from people who had never appeared in my comment section before, angrily rebuking me.

@Siadi —- Who do you think you are? Looking at Lilly with those malicious eyes! Leave our Lilly alone!

@Tonis — Lilly is Henry’s true love. I just wanted you to know, lol.

@Yandi — Just because you are married to Henry doesn’t mean a thing! You are just a country bumpkin who was exchanged for money. I made a clear search on you. Your father had a medical condition that was treated; he also got his job back! Your entire family is full of hungry hyenas, only looking for money, lol.

@Tress — I will advise all critical-thinking people not to exchange words with this girl. She only completed elementary school; how can she understand you? Haaaa.

@Fredri — Is it just me that doesn’t know what is going on?

@Odies — follow this link to clearly see this woman’s disgusting eyes towards our Lilly: ww||http:#wethvdjkdvhfsdgunk. Thank me later!

@Cream — The rest of the family left without her, probably because she can’t fit in with them. Look at her; it is as though she has never seen the outside world. Lol, she grew up in Muni and has never left. heeee

Such comments kept pouring in on my page, so I also clicked on the link to see what was going on.

I saw a video of when I was looking at Henry as he escorted Lilly; however, the camera angle somehow focused on Lilly and my sight instead. I immediately sighed. Why would I hate Lilly? I instead appreciated her; however, I couldn’t explain this to these people.

I finished preparing myself and headed towards the dining table to have some simple lunch.

As I approached the table, I felt faint. The last thing I remember was the chef worriedly running towards me.

Chapter 21: Good News?

I squinted my eyes open. Pearl was right beside my bed as she talked on the phone with someone.

“Okay,” Pearl said as the call disconnected.

“You are up? How are you feeling?” Pearl asked.

“Okay,” I said. That was a big mistake on my part, as my throat immediately felt the repercussions of speaking.

“Don’t speak, just nod yes for okay. It’s good that you are fine. You don’t need to worry about your condition; it’s all good,” Pearl said.

I inquiringly looked at Pearl, who smiled. “You are pregnant. I just told Henry; he was very excited and told me to take good care of you until he returns,” she said.

I don’t know why, but this piece of news didn’t bring any excitement to me. I didn’t have any good memories regarding the coming into existence of this pregnancy. However, I vowed to protect my child at all costs. I gently touched my belly. I guess this was my birthday gift this time around.

Henry came home the following day. He first talked to Pearl, then entered the room. He had previously told Demilia to shift all my clothes into the main bedroom again.

“You really bring me joy every time, Shiba,” Henry said as he sat beside me, placing my hand in his.

“Dad and Mum already know about our baby. We shall soon tell Father-in-law and Mother-in-law. I bet they will be thrilled,” Henry said.

“Alright, let’s talk. I saw the news that was spread all over. Don’t worry; the reporter will face the consequences of his actions. You, on the other hand, tsk, tsk, who do you think you are to look at Lilly in such a way, hm?” Henry said as he held my hand tightly, causing pain to penetrate my skin.

I tried to release my hands from his to no avail.

“This child saved you today. Lilly is indeed my true love; I don’t intend to hide that matter from you, as it’s not important to do so. Everyone in my family knows how I feel about her. However, she isn’t aware. She has always been in poor health. If you do anything to cause her stress… no one will save you,” Henry then stood up and left.

It was then that I discovered I had labored breath; my hands were held so tightly that they left a visible mark.

So what if Lilly was his first love? I didn’t care. I wasn’t one to be jealous, as I was raised contrary to that. What hurt me was that my child was not even worthy when it came to Lilly.

I called my brother and told him the news. He was so happy that he was going to become an uncle and promised to shower my child with whatever they needed. My sister was no different; she noted that her child would have playmates now, as she had already given birth to a baby boy.

Tanti said that she would become the child’s godmother by default, and no one would ever bully them if she was around.

Her words brought back the shine that had dulled due to Henry’s comments. Even though Henry didn’t value this child’s well-being, I had a family that would treasure it!

In my culture, a woman would return home one week after discovering her pregnancy. This was so that the mother could nurture her and provide advice regarding child-rearing and birth.

Henry didn’t mind me going this time around; however, he warned me to think about what was good for my family. I knew he meant to keep every action of his hidden from my parents.

With Henry’s character, I knew what he was capable of; however, he didn’t have to worry about a thing. I would never put my family in danger.

I therefore traveled back to my parents’ home. My mother was excited; she didn’t stop asking me about Henry and how I was treated. I could now talk, but I was advised by Pearl not to strain my voice, as it might have permanent repercussions.

I just told her that I was fine and that she didn’t need to worry. My father also came in with a smile as he praised my good luck, etc.

News had also spread online; some people on my page wished me good luck, but others still showered me with insults.

A day after my arrival, my sister came with her husband and child, and they wished me good luck. I asked her to let me carry my nephew. The baby was cute and lovely with a chubby body. I gently squeezed his cheek, causing him to smile lightly.

“He likes his aunt,” Sima’s husband commented as he hugged her. I could feel and see the genuine love between them; I was suddenly envious of their relationship.

My brother also arrived. He bought children’s toys, clothes, etc., both for boys and girls, telling me that whatever the outcome of the pregnancy was, he would be the good uncle. Sima immediately argued with him, saying that she would be the cool aunt.

I silently smiled at their actions in helplessness; at least this child would be loved, and that’s all that mattered.

Three days later, Tanti came to my house to also celebrate and wish me the best. She refused to go home; she said that she would stay with me for at least two days before going back to her husband’s house.

My mother simply let her be, not before asking if Zire was okay with her stay. Tanti said that Zire didn’t mind, so my mother therefore calmed down.

Tanti slept in my room, and we all silently looked up at the ceiling while we were lying on the bed. “You followed the love of your life; I envy you, Tanti,” I said.

I heard Tanti chuckle. “So what if I married the love of my life? I now understand why my parents were set on finding me a husband. Once you follow your heart, there is no turning back,” she said.

I slowly turned towards her. “Are you okay?” I asked.

“I should be asking you that. How can a pregnant woman be your weight? It’s not healthy,” Tanti said.

“Didn’t you tell me that high-class circles like thin women? I went on a diet too,” I laughed as I said.

I saw Tanti silently watch me, which caused me to turn my gaze towards the ceiling again.

“Zire isn’t whom I expected him to be,” Tanti suddenly said. I was silently startled and immediately faced back towards her, only to see her looking at the sky.

“I don’t want to admit that my choice was wrong, though,” Tanti added.

“Does he hurt you?” I asked.

I heard Tanti laugh. “I wish he did instead, he doesn’t harm me,” Tanti said.

I suddenly sighed in relief; at least Tanti had other issues, not physical assault. I didn’t want to ask her what the problem was, as I didn’t want to sound nosy.

“I married first, but you gave birth first. It’s really amusing,” Tanti said.

“So what? There are many more years to come; you will surely give birth,” I affirmed.

I heard Tanti laugh, which appeared to be amusement at my words. “Isn’t this the first year we didn’t celebrate your birthday together? Don’t worry; I bought a cake. Let’s cut it tomorrow. Let’s rest; pregnant women shouldn’t stay up late,” Tanti said.

I nodded in understanding as we covered ourselves with a bed cover to sleep.

Tanti did indeed bring cake. We cut it together, and she wished me a happy birthday and a lovely delivery. Swanti, my younger sister, had come some time ago and sat beside me at the table. I cut a piece of cake and served it to her.

She smiled brightly before thanking me and eating it with great joy. I chuckled in helplessness; Swanti could be kidnapped by food one day.

Two days passed. Tanti had to leave. She hugged me tightly, told me she loved me, and to always take care of her godchild until she officially became a godmother. “Alright, I will keep this child safe by all means; put your heart to rest,” I said.

“Great,” Tanti said as she headed towards the car that had come to pick her up. Before boarding the car, she turned and smiled brightly at me. I have seen Tanti smile, but this smile was brighter than all the smiles she had ever had.

“Shiba, you are the best friend in the world! That baby will also be amazing! I will always call you until it arrives,” she said as she laughed and waved at me before entering the car. I hurriedly waved back as I watched the car disappear into the distance.

Chapter 22: Being massively hated hurts.

I only spent two weeks at home before going back to my husband’s home, or Henry’s home, to be exact. I really felt like calling Henry a husband would bring shame to all the good husbands in the world.

My brother had long gone back to Huner; Sima was the only one who had stayed at home. Her husband had also gone back; after all, he had to work and provide for his family.

My father warned me to keep up the good behavior while at Henry’s home and to listen to him in order for the family to stay stable.

I really wanted to tell him that the Henry he knew was a fake. However, I wondered, would my father care if I told him about Henry’s character?

My mother, father, and his other wives, Sima, and some of my younger brothers and sisters saw me off as I headed towards the car.

I silently turned back towards them. Although those people on the internet called my family “hungry hyenas,” I didn’t take their words to heart.

My family was just like all the other families; we were all trying to get by. I wondered if these people were put in my family’s shoes, would they choose differently from my father? If they did choose differently, what would they do to run such a family?

“Madam, please,” I heard the driver say.

I waved at him before I climbed into the car; the driver then took me home. When I arrived, I immediately wanted to have some rest. These past days, I had always felt exhausted and drowsy.

“I knew you would like them,” I suddenly heard Henry’s voice. I was startled because I had been home these past days; I had forgotten about the shadow Henry had over me.

I heard a gentle female voice chuckle. “You have always been attentive. How could you know every flower species I like?” the voice said as they approached my direction.

I wanted to immediately rush upstairs, but I couldn’t. If my figure was seen running off, it would be weird.

“You’re finally back?” Henry asked as he led Lilly to the nearby sofa.

I nodded towards him in acknowledgment. “That’s good then. How is Father-in-law and Mother-in-law?” he asked.

“They are okay,” I answered.

“Father-in-law is really succeeding in his area of operation; they plan on promoting him,” Henry chuckled as he said.

I now knew that he was monitoring me by whatever means I couldn’t figure out. He must have known that I didn’t tell my parents anything out of the ordinary. My father’s promotion was now just a token thrown in my face for the good performance. I internally sneered as I attempted to go upstairs.

“Shiba? How is the child? That will be like my own child too. Henry and I have always been childhood friends; we promised each other that one’s child will also be the other’s,” Lilly weakly and gently said.

“The child is healthy,” I replied as I headed upstairs. I really didn’t have time to chat, not because of anything else but because I saw through Lilly’s act. Henry had now taught me how to read faces like a professional.

How could I not see Lilly’s fake acting? She was an unmarried woman in another woman’s house, with a married man. Even if the man was her childhood friend, it wouldn’t be appropriate to rush into his matrimonial home and weakly walk into the arms of said friend when the wife was around!

That was only reserved for married women of that man! Lilly wasn’t married to Henry, so everything she did was pretty obvious; she wanted to invoke jealousy in me. She didn’t even know that I didn’t care about Henry one bit! She could have all of him to herself.

I had just changed clothes and was preparing to rest when Henry walked in. He yanked my arm and made me face him.

“What was that just now? You didn’t even greet Lilly! Lilly just asked you a simple question, but you had to reply with an attitude! Why are you such a bitch?” Henry shouted.

I was so angry at the derogatory words he called me, and coupled with my hormones, I guess, I suddenly exploded.

“What was she doing walking in the arms of a married man? She is your first love, I understand, but her question wasn’t as innocent as it seemed! If you love her, then marry her!” I screamed.

I heard Henry chuckle and laugh. “Are you jealous, huh? You are actually jealous! Hahahah, this is funny. What right do you have to call me husband? I told you that you are just a stand-in; you don’t have a right to ask questions, or do I have to teach you a lesson again?” he said.

“I am your wife; that’s what the whole world sees, that’s what Lilly sees! Even if you call me a stand-in…” I was in the middle of talking when Henry heavily slapped me, causing me to fall on the bed.

“You dare say Lilly’s name through that dirty mouth?” Henry asked.

“I will be escorting Lilly now. When I return, I hope that you will have known your place. Think about the child you are carrying.” Henry then headed outside and closed the door behind him as he left.

I silently held my aching face as I looked outside the window. I really hated this home. Would it have been different if I had acted willfully and found love just like Tanti? Would it have been different then?

Days passed by, but Henry still hadn’t returned. I also didn’t care to ask about his whereabouts. I would sew, talk to Tanti, Sima, and my brother on the phone to spend my days.

Pearl came every day and carried out check-ups on my pregnancy, telling me to exercise and move about as it was good for pregnant mothers.

One day, I was casually checking social media when I encountered some news about Henry. I clicked on the post and saw different pictures of Henry and Lilly at an amusement park. In one picture, Lilly was wearing a soft cotton sweater that covered her ears, making her appear cute and gentle. She was holding an ice cream cone as she pointed into the distance with a bright smile, while Henry looked at her tenderly.

In the comment section, different people were urging them to get married already. Others encouraged Henry to divorce the country bumpkin that his parents chose for him and marry his true love.

Some wished for me to just disappear from Muni, while others called me a homewrecker for knowing that Henry had a first love and inserting myself into their love.

How could I have known Henry’s first love? I hadn’t kept up with what was going on in his life apart from the rumors from passersby. I immediately closed the thread; although I didn’t want to admit it, being massively hated hurt.

Chapter 23: Tanti’s memory.

In the weeks that followed, Henry came by. I had now completely shaken off the act of caring about anything that concerned him.

I resumed learning crocheting from Grandma, as the sessions had stopped ever since the day of Henry’s assault.

“I was surprised when Mr. Henry told me not to come for these classes for the time being. Turns out you were pregnant,” Grandma happily exclaimed.

I had decided to let people assume what they wanted to; after all, telling anyone about my situation wouldn’t change a thing but would burden those who knew.

“It’s good to give birth when you are this young! Listen, I will give you some advice about childbirth…” Grandma then continued to give me a lecture about childbirth practices, etc.

I thanked her for the input as we continued to crochet and sew. “You really have a natural talent for this!” Grandma sighed as she said.

Eight months quickly passed by; my delivery time was a stone’s throw away. I had stopped hearing from Tanti two months before my delivery. I asked my sister if she could reach her, but she told me not to worry about Tanti as she was safe. She added that Tanti had gone abroad and would be back soon.

My heart wasn’t settled, but I chose to trust Sima’s words; she had never lied to me.

My time came, and I was led to the hospital. Henry came, and Lilly was tagging behind him. I don’t know why, but Lilly reminded me of those annoying ads on my phone. However, I still appreciated her. Henry hadn’t spent too much time with me in these past months, hence less assault on my part.

Giving birth was hell on earth. I was dying of tremendous pain. When Henry had previously dislocated my jaw, it didn’t come close to the pain I was feeling now.

Loud cries of a child were heard. I saw Henry running in with a hospital gown to see the child. I also somehow breathed in relief until I had another sharp pain in my belly.A nearby doctor immediately noticed and approached me.

“They are twins! Quickly push,” the doctor shouted. I was startled—twins? Wasn’t it just one child? I repeated the previous actions as I pushed hard; sweat was dripping down my face. I really thought I was going to die. It was so painful that I couldn’t put it into words.

Another crying voice was heard. “Sir, this is a blessing; they are two…” I heard the doctor elaborate to Henry before I passed out.

When I woke up, I saw two small bundles in a nearby small bed. Henry, Lilly, Mr. and Mrs. Charpil were seated opposite that bed.

“Shiba, how are you feeling?” I heard a voice ask.

I turned towards the voice and found Ady, my brother, and Sima worriedly looking at me. My mother and father were also present.

“Okay,” I hoarsely replied.

“That’s good. Let’s choose names for these two,” Henry said as he approached the bed where the children were sleeping.

“Let’s call the boy Harry Klain Charpil. Shiba, you name the girl,” Henry suggested.

I suddenly thought about Tanti. Why was she still not here? She had promised to be present; she most likely would be excited to name the child.

“Let’s wait for Tanti to name her; she is their godmother, after all,” I softly said.

Suddenly, there was silence all over the place. I inquiringly looked at their faces.
“Shiba, Tanti,” Sima weakly said.

“What? You don’t want her to be the godmother? I promise you will be the godmother of the next child,” I said.

“Your friend passed away two months ago,” Henry said.

“What are you talking about?” I angrily glared at him.

“Shiba, I am sorry. I lied. You were pregnant. I thought that information would be a danger to you and the children,” Sima said.

“What are you guys on about?” I suddenly screamed. “What do you mean Tanti is gone? I spoke to her on the phone two months prior.”

I immediately stood up and removed the cannula from my arm.
“What are you doing? Lay back down,” Henry sighed as he tried to make me lie down.

“Let me go,” I said in deep anger that I didn’t know I could feel.

“Get your hands off me right now,” I added.

“It’s okay, let her go. I will escort her anywhere she wants to go,” my brother said.

Henry smiled at me as he released my shoulders. “Okay, please be sure to return her in time; the children need to be fed after all,” he said.

I saw my brother nod before escorting me out.
“I am sorry, Shiba; I also couldn’t tell you the truth,” Ady said with shame.

“Take me to her grave,” I said as we reached the hospital exit.

My brother covered me with his sweater and attempted to call a taxi, but I saw Henry’s car park in front of us as the driver opened the car door for us to enter.

“Sir told me to take you in your direction,” the driver said.

We sat in the car, and Ady reported the address to the driver. “How did she die?” I suddenly asked.

“She accidentally fell, causing her head to hit the table,” Ady said.

“How?” I asked again.

“She tried forcefully to get Zire’s phone; that’s how,” Ady slowly answered.

“So Zire killed her,” I quietly said as I looked outside the window. Even when one followed their heart and found love, it didn’t matter after all.

“Shiba, Aunt also couldn’t accept the results of the autopsy, so she filed a case against Zire. The court still stood by the findings. They said Zire didn’t have any intention to kill her; the cameras were also presented. It was just unfortunate,” Ady sighed as he said.

I slowly chuckled. Courts? What a bunch of bullshit; all those worked for the rich! Just like Mat, Henry’s friend, once said, why waste your time when the outcome has already been decided?

“How is aunty now?” I asked.

“She is still down,” Ady said.

We suddenly reached our destination. Tanti was buried in their family graveyard. In our community, each family had their own graveyards.

Ady slowly and gently held my hand as I climbed in that direction. I hadn’t healed, but surprisingly, I seemed not to feel the pain.

“Let me talk to Tanti alone,” I said to my brother.

“Okay, I will be waiting,” my brother said as he headed back towards the car.

I silently watched Tanti’s picture on the tombstone. “Why did you lie? I, however, can’t blame you; I also lied to you, Tanti. I am miserable with Henry; I hate my marriage, but I can’t leave. I would have told you, but you hurried to leave. Remember those women people despised for not getting married? I now envy them so much.”I chuckled as I sat down beside Tanti’s grave, slightly resting my head on the tombstone,a tear slid down my face,falling on Tanti’s grave.

I suddenly remembered the way Tanti smiled at me the last day we met in person. Her smile was brighter than the stars, but what could have been behind it?

‘Tanti, why did you leave me? I have given birth to twins. I took care of your godchildren; they are now here, but you aren’t. Tanti, Tanti…’ I helplessly cried as I called.

“Shiba? Child, why are you here? You just gave birth; it’s not good for your health,” I heard a woman say. When I turned around, I saw that it was Aunt, Tanti’s mother.

“Aunt, I was talking to Tanti. She promised to be the godmother of my child; she…” I explained.

“Alright, I am sorry on her behalf. I will become their godmother if it can earn your forgiveness,” Aunt said with a sigh as she placed flowers on Tanti’s grave.”

“Why?” I choked as I listlessly asked.

“Go back and take care of the children. I told them not to tell you about Tanti’s passing because you were pregnant. I am the one to blame. Tanti told you to take care of those children, right?” Aunty asked, and I nodded in agreement.

“When you are poor, you have to always be humble. You rarely get visitors, and people shun you. Some people thought that I wanted money from Tanti’s husband because I couldn’t believe their conclusions,” Aunty said.

I was suddenly infiltrated. How come I hadn’t known that Muni had such people? The more the people showed their faces, the more I hated this city.

“I don’t blame them, and neither should you. I only blame myself for not being capable enough. After trying all I could, I finally dedicated my life to looking after Tanti’s grave; after all, I will soon follow her,” Aunty said as she sadly smiled.

“Aunty! You are still strong. As long as we are still alive, we shall uncover the truth one day,” I said in between tears as I hugged her.

“Alright, go ahead. The children can’t be left without their mother for so long,” Aunty said as she patted my back. Ady then led me away on Aunty’s orders.

The car dropped Ady off at the hospital, where my family was waiting, and then directly went home.

“Mr. Henry and the rest went home; he told me to drive you there,” the driver explained. I simply nodded in understanding.

When we reached home, I directly headed to the bedroom. I wanted to change, see the children, and reminisce about Tanti. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on my side, as Henry was in the room.

“Finally back?” Henry rhetorically asked as he placed the child in his hands back in the children’s crib.

“Your friend’s accident was really a tragedy. Zire has been sad for the past months; I haven’t seen him like that before,” Henry said.

“He is a murderer who should be in jail,” I assertively said.

“Oh? How is that going to happen?” Henry chuckled as he asked in a confused manner.

“When you commit many misdeeds, you are bound to leave traces one way or another. Eventually, the truth shall come to light,” I slowly said as I entered the bathroom.

Chapter 24: Where is Sophie?

I don’t know how it happened, but a reporter had filmed me at Tanti’s grave that day, and the news had spread all over Muni.

It had become a time-passing hobby for some television channels to give their views on the situation.

Some said that I had visited the grave as a stunt since people had ridiculed me for breaking up childhood sweethearts. Others said I was a scheming person who hired a reporter on the day of my baby’s birth to visit the grave. They continued by saying, how could I not have known about the death of my childhood friend, which happened months back, etc.

Different news and social media channels were sending me invites for interviews. I was listlessly heartbroken and sad. In all their speculation, not one of them mentioned the cause of Tanti’s death! It was as if it didn’t matter!

I decided to take matters into my own hands. I would personally find the real reason for Tanti’s death. First, I would find out about Sophie and what really led her to a mental hospital.

However, I didn’t know how I was going to achieve that. I now had to take care of the children and be wary of Henry’s actions. Once again, I felt the power of being helplessly alone.

I decided to call my brother. I would just tell him to hire a private investigator; I would cover the costs. When I was getting married, Mr. Charpil gave me some money, which I put into my account.

“Why are you trying to find out about that employee? Shiba, is something wrong?” Ady immediately asked over the phone after I told him about my request.

“Nothing is wrong; I just want to know about the specifics of why Sophie landed in the hospital,” I said.

“Shiba, I am your brother; don’t hide anything from me, okay?” Ady said.

“I know, please just do this for me; don’t tell anyone about it, though,” I said.

“No problem. Which mental hospital was it again?” Ady asked.

“Muni Mental Health Medical Center,” I reported.

“Okay, however, after everything is discovered, we really have to have an in-depth talk, Shiba, okay?” Ady assertively said. I saw his persistent nature and decided to go along with him.

“Okay, just don’t tell anyone about our conversation,” I once again warned.

“I understand, Shiba. Have some rest; it’s the middle of the night. Isn’t Henry around?” Ady asked.

“He is busy; you know he goes on different work trips,” I said.

“But you just gave birth; you shouldn’t be left all alone,” Ady commented.

“It’s alright; the children are fine. I also have different nannies; it’s not a bother,” I said.

“Even if…” My brother was talking when I quickly interrupted him. I knew he cared about me so much; if this continued, he would try to critically analyze everything.

“Ady, I am fine. Goodnight,” I said with a smile.

“Goodnight too, Ada,” Ady said before we ended our call.

Finally, I was at least put at ease. I would first clearly analyze Sophie’s matter; then, through the same investigator, I would try to find out about Tanti.

What I needed was the contact of that investigator. I didn’t want my brother to know about me going further to find out about Tanti. I didn’t want anyone to find out, not even my left arm!

I went to the nearby bedroom and checked on the children again before I went to sleep. Henry had brought in some engineers to prepare the children’s room, and monitoring cameras were also installed. Although I wanted to sleep with my babies, I couldn’t say anything about his arrangements.

Two days passed, and Ady called me, telling me that he had found an investigator. However, the amount needed was a lot. I was happy and quickly told him to withdraw money from my account. I didn’t care; what had I even used the money there for?

My brother seemed hesitant, telling me that the money should be kept on my side in case of any emergency. I knew he was once again worried about me, and I helplessly smiled.

“Just withdraw the money, okay? Let me send you the details. By the way, you didn’t tell anyone, did you?” I asked over the phone.

I heard Ady laugh a little. “Put your heart at rest, Shiba. I didn’t tell anyone. Why are you more of an investigator?” he said helplessly.

We then talked about what he was up to. When I brought up his marriage, he surprisingly told me that it would be soon.

I wondered which girl he had set his eyes on. My brother might not have been as rich as Henry, but he had a caring and loving heart. He was also hardworking and handsome.

When we walked together in the market, many ladies would secretly whisper and blush towards him; however, he always seemed oblivious, or maybe he just chose to ignore them. I will never know. I was suddenly curious as to who would win his heart.

The investigation was quickly done; within a week, Ady called me with the results.
“What is going on, Shiba?” Ady asked.

“What are you asking about? Isn’t the investigation done?” I asked back.

“The investigation’s conclusion isn’t the issue; the contents of the investigation are,” Ady said.

“The investigator found that there is indeed a person called Sophie who was an employee at Henry’s house and was registered in the medical center, but at the same time, there is no Sophie residing inside that center,” Ady explained.

My heart immediately thudded.
“Where is she?” I asked.

“No one knows; it’s as though she disappeared into thin air. There are no contacts. When the investigator tried reaching her parents, he discovered that they were no longer in Muni,” Ady explained.

“Shiba, tell me, what is going on?” Ady asked. I didn’t know what to tell him; I didn’t want to tell him about Henry in the first place; nothing good would come out of it.

When I thought about the fact that I didn’t have any leads on Sophie and why she wasn’t in the medical center that she was supposed to be in, I felt fear. Could Henry really make someone disappear? I didn’t want my brother to search any further or have anything to do with this matter from now on!

“Listen, Ady, I was just investigating this issue on someone’s behalf. It’s the gardener; he wanted to know what happened to Sophia after being admitted. Don’t think about this issue further, okay? If she isn’t there, then all is good. Maybe her parents couldn’t bear seeing their child in the mental hospital and took her? Let’s not think about the issue any further,” I said.

“Shiba, please tell me you aren’t hiding anything from me,” Ady requested.

“Is that brother-in-law on the phone?” Suddenly, I heard Henry’s low voice beside my ear, which I was using to receive the call. My heart dropped to my stomach. Did he hear anything about our conversation?

Ady was also silent on the other end of the line. “Let me talk to brother-in-law,” Henry smiled as he snatched the phone from my hand.

“Ady, how is Huner treating you?” Henry asked. I couldn’t hear what my brother was saying on the other line.

“Well, I heard you talk about someone called Sophie?” Henry once again asked.

My heart stilled; Henry had heard our conversation. I didn’t know what would follow, and I didn’t want my brother to face any problems.

Henry turned and faced me as he listened to what my brother was saying, as though amused.

“Oh, you two siblings really know how to pass the time. Okay, have a nice day,” Henry immediately disconnected the call.

“Well? What was that just now?” Henry asked.

“Nothing, I personally wanted to know about Sophie, no one else,” I said.

“Oh,” Henry nodded as he undid his cufflinks and folded his shirt.

“What happened to the promise you made about asking me anything you wanted to know? Now all my family’s laundry can be aired outside?” Henry asked as he also undid his belt.

“It seems you really haven’t learned your lesson,” Henry said before slapping me hard in the face, causing me to fall off the bed. He then proceeded to whip me with the belt.

The golden belt handle immediately connected with my skin, causing it to break and blood to gush out. I cried in pain and agony as I covered my face.

“You now have the guts to talk about my house’s business with that nobody? Your family is just like pests and ants. Do you want me to make an example of one of you for all of you to know your place?” Henry asked before he stopped and picked out his phone from his pocket.

“It’s a pity; your brother was so hardworking. Why did he have to snoop around? This is the second time he has done so,” Henry said as he dialed a number.

My heart immediately stopped. I couldn’t let anything happen to my brother. “Please don’t hurt my brother!” I cried as I held Henry’s thighs tightly. Henry tried to push me off him, but I couldn’t let him go. I couldn’t watch him cause harm to my brother; he could do anything he wanted to me, but not to my brother!

“Oh, you really love him so much? Even when he was privileged over you? You didn’t study because of him. I am just doing you a favor by punishing him a little,” Henry chuckled as he spoke before the phone went through.

“Handle some business for me in Huner. Locate someone called Dr. Ady and teach him a lesson to never snoop around,” Henry said.

“No! Please. No, I will never do it again! It was me! Please spare my brother! I will do anything you want. Yes, I will do anything,” I cried as I spoke.

“Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do for me,” Henry said as he hung up the phone.

I listlessly and helplessly sat on the ground. If anything happened to my brother, I would kill Henry, I suddenly thought.

Chapter 25: Ady’s Misfortune.

From that day, I didn’t know what happened outside. Henry took my phone and forbade anyone in the house from giving me one. I was restless; I couldn’t eat or properly concentrate on taking care of the twins. All I thought about was my brother.

A week went by in that state. Henry also hadn’t returned home, so I couldn’t gauge the situation. I had put on all the news channels, but nothing came up; I was so frustrated.

On this day, I was feeding the crying twin, Massey. Her brother, Klain, was watching us with his big eyes. I put on the news channel, and this time around, a news channel was showing news from Huner.

“A major fire broke out in Huner Main Hospital. Thankfully, the authorities acted in time. A medical doctor and two nurses were harmed in the situation, but they are all out of danger,” the news reporter on TV said. My heart dropped; this was my brother’s hospital! Was Henry this heartless that he could cause harm to people on this large scale?

I immediately placed Massey down and put a pacifier in her mouth. I couldn’t stay still. By whatever circumstance, I had to find out if my brother was hurt!

I immediately rushed towards the mansion’s entrance; no one could stop me from going out!

“Where are you rushing to?” Henry asked as he was coming from outside. I almost bumped into him.

“Have your phone; you should want to talk to your brother, right?” Henry said as he chuckled, handing me my phone and walking towards the twins.

“How are my babies? Dad is back!” Henry said as he headed towards the children.

I immediately tried calling my brother’s phone, but it wasn’t going through. “What did you do to my brother, you lunatic!” I screamed at Henry. I was beyond angry and frustrated.

Massey immediately began to cry. “Shhh… see? You made my baby cry. Okay, Massey, be good,” Henry said as he ignored me while carrying Massey.

Some of the employees looked at me questioningly as they walked past. I simply couldn’t ask Henry anything.

I continued to call my brother non-stop, but it was still the same result: no reply!
“Have you thought for a fact that he may just not be able to hear you?” Henry slowly chuckled as he asked while soothingly carrying Massey.

A chill ran down my spine as I angrily turned towards him.
“What do you mean?” I asked.

“Why are you looking at me like that? It was just a suggestion,” Henry said as he made smiley faces at Massey, who was now giggling happily.

“What do you mean?” I listlessly asked again.

Henry simply chuckled as he headed upstairs, carrying both Massey and Klain.

I slowly walked towards a nearby sofa and sat down. I then called my sister; she picked up after I called her two times.

“Sima, how is Ady?” I immediately asked.

I heard Sima sniffle. “How did you know about his condition?” she asked.

“The news,” I said.

“Ady, he will never be able to hear again,” Sima said.

I simply couldn’t believe her words! What do you mean Ady can’t hear?

“What do you mean, Sima?” I asked.

“Shiba, Ady lost his hearing ability! As a doctor, this might affect him! Also, the woman he had proposed to escaped with another wealthy man after finding out about his situation! Why does it have to be Ady?” Sima said as she cried.

I stopped listening to anything she had to say after her explanation. My brother had struggled to reach where he was! What did Henry know about privilege? Ady worked hard in the fields; he woke up early and slept late. He worked like a horse for his family, for me, Dad, Mom, all my father’s wives, and children!

Suddenly, a surge of anger rose within me. I immediately rushed upstairs. Henry had just finished laying down the children in their crib.The nanny was checking on their condition as she gave them toys to play with.

“You want to talk? Let’s go and talk,” Henry said as he went towards our bedroom.

“Why did you do that to my brother?” I asked after entering the room and closing the door behind me.

“You are always asking the wrong questions, Shiba. Ask yourself, why did you do that to your brother? You are the one who hurt him. You snooped around my affairs; I don’t tolerate anybody, and I mean anybody, airing my laundry,” Henry slowly said.

“Thankfully, nothing was aired out; that’s what saved your brother. As for you, I believe you learned your lesson. Just lay down for me; I yearn for you. After that, I will consider this chapter done,” Henry said as he approached me and held my shoulders, sliding my dress off my shoulders.

I intently looked at Henry and thought that this man before my eyes would put lunatics to shame. I immediately rearranged my dress.

“Let’s divorce,” I stated immediately.

“Your first love is already here anyway. Don’t worry; I will work like a donkey to pay every single penny my family owes,” I added.

I heard Henry laugh. “I will pretend that I didn’t hear what you said. Didn’t anyone tell you that no woman in the Charpil family can divorce?” he said as he removed his shirt, throwing it to the side of the bed.

“Okay, let me now ease your jealousy. I thought we had previously agreed not to talk about Lilly?” Henry said as he roughly threw me on the bed.

Although weeks had passed since I gave birth, it was advisable not to be intimate until over a month. I also didn’t have any desire to be intimate with Henry at all!

“You beast! You just ended my brother’s career, and now you are attempting to assault me!” I shouted as I tried to stand up from the bed; however, Henry was faster than me. He held me down as his hands slid inside my dress and removed my underwear.

“What assault? You are my wife; it’s not like I am raping you,” Henry chuckled as he tore off my dress.

“Stop right now!” I screamed as I attempted to free my arms, but it was all useless. I simply stopped my struggle as I thought about Ady. How must he be feeling now? What did he do wrong in this entire situation?

“I love it when you are submissive, Shiba. Just cooperate with me, okay?” Henry said as he entered me. He didn’t take my situation into consideration at all as he thrust away.

I felt pain, but when I thought about Ady, the pain numbed. Who was I to complain when my brother lost everything he worked hard for? Henry was right; I was to blame. I made the mistake of involving him in my affairs. I shouldn’t have done that from the beginning. I silently cried at my brother’s misfortune.

Chapter 26: Don’t call him brother-in-law!

A week passed by, and I wanted to see my brother immediately, but I was ashamed to face him at the same time. I had called my sister and told her to talk to our mother and father immediately. I wanted them to talk to Mr. Charpil, allowing me to go and see my brother.

“Why did you have to go through all that? My brother-in-law is coming back to Muni anyway; it seems people don’t want to be treated by a deaf doctor,” Henry suddenly said as we were having breakfast. It seems like Henry had been informed by his father.

“Don’t call him your brother-in-law,” I said as I put down my fork.

“Oh? What should I call him then?” Henry asked as he drank his tea. I knew I couldn’t reason with such a madman, so I simply stood up to leave.

“Sit down; you aren’t allowed to leave this table until I am done eating,” Henry slowly said.

I sat back down. I knew that when Henry’s voice lowered to that level, he would do something mental.

Henry drank tea and finished his omelette. He then wiped his mouth. Demilia immediately told the kitchen staff to take away the utensils.

“Take care of Klain and Massey Shiba. Tomorrow, I will personally take you to see your brother,” Henry said as he stood up and walked in my direction. I immediately flinched as he raised his hand and held my cheek.

“You are suddenly growing on me, Shiba. You give me a headache, but I am starting to love it. What to do?” Henry said as he suddenly kissed me before going out.

I saw some employees whispering as they blushed while going to their work posts. I immediately knew that Henry was acting for this audience right now.

I had asked for a divorce, but Henry took my words as air. I knew that I had become a prisoner from that day; my smartphone was taken, and only a home phone was left for communication, whereby all calls were monitored.

I immediately headed upstairs and quickly brushed my teeth, harshly scrubbing my mouth. I hated Henry’s touch.

The next day, I followed Henry to a new house that my brother had built in Muni. He had saved money for a very long time to build it. He sent me pictures of its completion when I still had the smartphone. He planned to move his wife in and settle down in Muni for good. Unfortunately, this couldn’t happen anytime soon. I sadly looked outside the car window.

“Why are you acting like we are heading for a burial? Cheer up; your brother shouldn’t see you sad,” Henry said.

I simply ignored him. I had no way to get rid of him; I didn’t have the means to do so even if I tried. A simple divorce also couldn’t be possible; I had to grow thick skin around him.

We finally reached our destination. My brother’s house was a simple bungalow; however, the compound was well thought out. The entire atmosphere was just like him: welcoming and calm.

“Hm? Not bad for a doctor. The location is good. I heard he is planning to marry?” Henry asked as he chuckled.

I didn’t wait for the driver to open the car door for me; I immediately opened it and hurriedly walked away from him. I couldn’t bear to stay in the same space as him for a second.

“Shiba!” Sima called as she came out of the house.

“Sima,” I called back as I immediately hugged her.

“Mr. Henry,” Sima addressed Henry, who had followed.

“Just call me Henry, sister-in-law. Shiba has been worried about Ady. If it weren’t for the twins, she would have come sooner,” Henry elaborated.

“Please come in,” Sima said.

We followed her inside. The entire house’s furniture was in place and once again equally matched my brother’s temperament.

Sima pointed with her chin to the outside balcony. My brother was putting on his reading glasses, his broad and tall back facing us as he sat on a chair reading a book.

“It’s such a pity,” I heard Henry sigh beside me. I gritted my teeth in anger and resentment.

I slowly and guiltily walked in his direction. I intentionally made a sound as I passed by the chair near the balcony just to confirm if what was said was true, but I was greatly disappointed when my brother didn’t turn around to acknowledge my presence.

“Brother!” I called as I now stood in front of him. I saw Ady slightly pause his reading, his eyes on my shoes before turning to face me. His eyes shone as he smiled brightly at me.

“Shiba!” he called, but his words didn’t seem to be coordinated; however, I could clearly understand him.

I felt my eyes sting as tears threatened to fall. I then saw my brother panic as he typed on his phone before showing me the text.

“Don’t cry; I am fine and healthy. It’s just that my ears had a problem,” Ady’s text said.

Ady then turned and saw Henry. He gently smiled as he nodded at him before typing away again on his phone and showing him.

“Please forgive my rudeness. I wasn’t able to welcome you properly. Also, for talking about your employee,” the text read.

I wanted to scream and tell Ady that the lunatic who had done this to him was none other than the person he was apologizing to!

Henry shook his head. “It’s okay, not a problem. Oh! Sorry, you can’t hear; let me type,” he said as he picked up his phone to type. Sima subtly looked at him before looking away.

I immediately held my brother’s hand as I led him away from Henry’s presence. Ady allowed me to lead him away.

I snatched Ady’s phone from his hand as I typed, “How did this happen?” I showed him the words.

Ady was hesitant but then typed, “Don’t worry about it; it’s already a gone case.”

From his text, I confirmed that someone really did indeed do this to him! I angrily glared at him for lying, and Ady avoided my eyes. I could only helplessly sigh; I was the root cause of everything. If only I hadn’t married Henry, this wouldn’t have happened.

“That woman, was she the one you were planning on marrying?” I typed to Ady.

Ady shook his head in acknowledgment, smiling as he wrote to me, “My deafness was a blessing in disguise; I was able to see her true colors,” the text read.

“She should thank God that I wasn’t able to meet her. If I had seen her face, I would have peeled it off!” I typed as I showed Ady.
Ady laughed in amusement as he led me toward the dining table.

We ate together in a harmonious atmosphere. Apart from Henry, who always reminded me why my brother was the way he was, everything was great.

I wanted to have an in-depth chat with Ady, but Henry said he had an important meeting. I wanted to tell him to go ahead, but he just smiled and said that the twins couldn’t be left alone for long. My sister and brother also urged me to go.

I had no option but to follow Henry back. I knew that he didn’t want me to reveal anything to Ady or Sima; that was the real reason he wanted me to follow him!

Chapter 27: Unlucky.

I decided to spend my energy on Klain and Massey; after all, these two bundles were the only joy I had in this house. I sometimes slept in their room when Henry was around.

Tanti and Sophie’s affairs would be put on hold for the time being. I was tightly bound and could do nothing about their situation; however, I wouldn’t rest until I unveiled everything! I didn’t care how much money it cost; if it came to my childhood friend’s life, I wasn’t afraid of anything!

Today was no different. I finished breastfeeding the twins and placed them in their cribs. The two were well-behaved after being breastfed; they silently watched the rotating toys in their cribs as they giggled. I silently smiled as I watched them.

“Come to the room tonight; I contacted a nanny who will work at night,” Henry’s voice suddenly interrupted my peaceful moment.

“Let’s also have a couple talk while we’re at it,” Henry added.

I could only follow behind him. “Why are you always so far away from me? Come and sit beside me. Will you even hear what I have to tell you over there?” Henry asked when we reached the bedroom. I had immediately sat as far away as possible from him; one couldn’t know what was in the head of this lunatic.

Henry then sighed as he stood up and sat by my side. My body flinched as he placed his arm around my waist.

“Did you check your social media? People are now worshipping you for being a good and caring wife,” Henry said as he hugged me close to him and placed his head on my shoulder.

I immediately knew that something was wrong. What about my social media? I hadn’t cared to check the activities over there! What had Henry done? I quickly picked up my phone to check.

On my social media, one of the pictures showed the twins, but their faces were blurred, and someone had taken a picture of Henry holding Massey as he smiled.

“My husband is the best girl dad in the world. I love him,” the post read. I gritted my teeth in anger! I have never posted such rubbish!

Another picture was also secretly taken that day when Henry kissed me! “I don’t know what to give my husband; he is always gentle and caring,” the post read. Henry’s fans immediately rushed to appreciate his care; they called him handsome and showered him with all kinds of praises.

I couldn’t control my anger; however, I could still think critically. On that day, Henry had already returned the phone to me, so someone was operating my account without my permission!

“Who posted these pictures?” I immediately asked.

“Why are you asking me? It’s your social media,” Henry chuckled as he said, kissing my neck.

I knew that this man before my eyes was really crazy as hell! After these posts, it would be difficult to file for a divorce even if I wanted to!

“Did you forget what you told me? I am not interesting; my thinking is low, and I can’t compare to those I can’t name, etc. Wouldn’t it be better for us to divorce?” I quickly elaborated.

“We all know that what I said was the truth. You just aren’t interesting; everybody can agree with me. However, divorce can’t be possible, simply because that’s this family’s tradition. We are from Muni, after all,” Henry calmly said as he slid his other arm between my thighs.

“Let’s leave such useless topics. You are somehow important, Shiba. You gave birth to these twins on the first try! I knew your body was amazing, but wow, you continue to surprise me. Let’s try and see if you will have another set, hm?” Henry commented as he forcefully parted my legs. I saw him stop before standing up.

“I almost forgot. It wasn’t fun when you fainted last time; let’s try again this time,” Henry said as he caressed my lips and undid his pants! I immediately had a bad feeling.

I was indeed right; Henry wanted to use my mouth! This time around, I would bite off his member!

“Behave, don’t make me teach another one a lesson. I heard mother-in-law is visiting her sister,” Henry said. My heart chilled; I could do nothing. I knew what this lunatic was capable of; my brother was an example.

“Open up, good. So well behaved today?” Henry smiled as he inserted his organ into my mouth.

“It seems your mouth adjusted to me,” Henry chuckled as he held my chin and the back of my head.

I wondered, would he do such disgusting acts to Lilly, or would he simply hide behind a mask?

Henry then shoved himself deep in my throat. My breath was knocked out by him. I tried pushing him off to no avail; he then proceeded to brutally thrust into me as my entire face was pushed against his abdomen. This time around, I thought I would die for sure.

Henry then lifted my face up, his organ still in my mouth. “You know you can simply breathe through your nose, right?” he smiled as he stated. I was beyond angry, but I couldn’t do anything; I couldn’t breathe because my face was pushed by him into his abdomen!

“I wish you could see your face right now. I really love it like this,” Henry chuckled as he continued his actions. After I stopped having any feeling in my jaw, Henry finally released in my mouth.

I immediately rushed towards the bathroom and threw up in the toilet. I put a finger in my mouth, leading me to vomit some food I had previously eaten. I flushed, brushed my teeth, and listlessly sat on the nearby chair.

I felt shame, resentment, and anger; however, I couldn’t do anything about it. I wanted to release my emotions, but I simply couldn’t. Tears ran down my face; I was really tired of everything. Maybe if I didn’t exist, everything that happened couldn’t have happened in the first place. My brother would be living his life to the fullest.

I was suddenly worried for my children. Would Henry treat them the same way he treated me?

I suddenly heard the shower go off in the opposite direction. I guess Henry was taking a shower. I quickly rushed to bed, covering myself up.

I heard Henry blow-drying his hair. He then walked towards the bed and lay down.

“Shiba, tonight was really great. You somehow became interesting at that moment,” Henry said as he chuckled.

“By the way, Lilly will be coming by tomorrow to see the kids. Just properly introduce her to them, okay? And keep your jealousy in check; it’s meaningless anyway,” Henry said before switching off the lights with his hands; they were motion sensor lights.

I don’t know why, but I really didn’t want Lilly to come close to my twins. It really annoyed me! And why didn’t Henry introduce them to her? My last thought before drifting off to sleep was that I was really unlucky to have crossed paths with this mentally ill psychopath.

Chapter 28: An Informant.

Lilly came by the following day. Henry patiently asked her if she wanted anything to eat. She weakly said she was fine and that seeing the kids would put her mind to rest.

Henry then smiled and told me to lead Lilly towards the children’s room. “I really would have stayed with you, Lilly; however, I have an important shareholder’s meeting that I can’t miss,” he apologetically said to Lilly.

“I understand you are busy; just take care of yourself. It’s not good to work this hard without rest,” Lilly said. I saw Henry smile; this time, this smile wasn’t the same as all the smiles he showed towards me. This smile was bright, carrying doting and helpless emotions.

So, this is what Henry’s real smile looked like? I silently thought.

“Okay, I will make sure to return soon,” Henry said before leaving.

“Henry has always had a responsible look since childhood,” Lilly sighed as she talked to me.

I simply nodded in understanding. If that is the image she had of Henry, I couldn’t shatter it. I then headed towards the children’s crib as she followed behind me.

“They are really so cute!” Lilly exclaimed as she picked up Klain, who was looking at her curiously with big eyes.

“I am so behind. I could have given birth by now if it weren’t for my health,” Lilly sighed as she said.

“You are fine now; you can have a family of your own and give birth,” I pointed out.

Lilly suddenly became quiet as she placed Klain back in the crib. “I guess I could, but circumstances are hindering me from doing so,” Lilly added as she walked towards the window and looked out.

“You are really lucky, Shiba, having such a man like Henry. You will never lack anything in life, right?” Lilly asked.

I just chose to ignore her assumption; people’s assumptions were starting to really annoy the hell out of me.

Lilly carried the twins and observed them before she headed back downstairs. I thought she had left, but apparently, when Henry came back, I saw him pass by me in the sitting room and directly go to the flower garden before coming back with her minutes later.

Lilly was bearing a blush as she wore Henry’s coat that reached the middle of her thighs.

“Why did you have to stay in the garden for so long? Your health is important!” Henry said as he led Lilly towards the dining table. He then told the chef to make some tea for her.

“What can I do? I just love those flowers,” Lilly softly said.

After some time, Henry escorted Lilly out and returned. “Follow me,” I heard him say as he headed upstairs. I could feel it in his voice that he was angry; I slowly followed behind him.

I then entered the bedroom. No sooner had I entered than a slap landed straight across my face. “I have been easy on you these days, right? You can now do as you please,” Henry slowly said as he approached me, holding my throat in a choke hold.

“I told you to take care of Lilly while I was away. What did you do? Ignored her and let her stay outside the house. Will you take responsibility when something happens to her, hm?” Henry slowly rebuked as his strength increased. I felt my breath slowly slipping away as my hands stopped struggling to push his away.

What could I possibly do? Lilly had a mind of her own; she saw the twins just like Henry had asked me to show her and then left after saying her goodbyes. How could I have known that she went to the flower garden?

Henry then threw me to the ground; my head hit the ground, and pain penetrated my skull. He then proceeded to kick me heavily. I cried in pain as I held my stomach.

“It seems you really like being treated this way. Will you behave now?” Henry asked. I desperately shook my head in acknowledgment.

“Learn your place,” Henry said as he went to the bathroom. I silently remained on the ground, not because I wanted to, but because I lacked the energy to do so. Henry’s actions were beginning to take a toll on me. Pearl was, of course, once again called.

From that day, Lilly would come by the house to see the twins. Henry made it a point for me to personally serve and watch over her. Although I really despised doing so, there was nothing I could do.

Years went by, and the twins turned 10 years old; their birthday was grand. Mr. Charpil gave them lavish gifts such as land in part A of the town, cars, etc.

My family also presented them with gifts, although they weren’t grand; it could be seen that they were very well thought out.

My brother had gotten a job at the hospital for the deaf in Muni. When I asked about his marriage, he always tried to divert the topic. My sister, however, told me that there was a certain daughter of a very wealthy man outside Muni who had been bothering him non-stop. I always secretly laughed in amusement at that; today was no different.

“Who is that lady? Quickly marry her!” I typed as I showed him.

My brother helplessly shook his head. “There is no lady; don’t listen to Sima’s words,” he typed. I knew he wouldn’t tell me anything.

The party was almost coming to an end when Henry told everyone that he had an announcement.

“I thank everyone for coming. Although some of you already have an idea, I just wanted to put it out there: Lilly and I have decided to get married,” Henry declared.

What a grand announcement! He just had to choose the day of the children’s birthday to do so!

My sister hesitantly and worriedly looked at me. I simply smiled. I knew this was coming; however, I didn’t know why it took so long. My father didn’t have a reaction; he just nodded in understanding. After all, he also had three wives.

My brother curiously typed on his phone as he asked Sima what was going on. Sima then told him.

“Are you okay?” my brother typed as he asked.

“It’s alright; this isn’t new in Muni,” I typed back. My brother held my hand as he intently looked into my eyes to gauge if I was telling the truth.

However, I had no reason to lie. I was actually happy. I had put up with Henry’s every action, some of which I couldn’t reveal even in my thoughts. From the day I got married, it has been hell for me. Maybe if Lilly entered Henry’s life, the situation would cool down a bit on my part.

The announcement passed just like that; different people congratulated Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Charpil also welcomed Lilly to the family.

I stood up to use the bathroom when a notification went off on my phone. When I read it, curiosity took over me. “Come to the flower garden,” the text read. I immediately headed in that direction.

Someone pulled me to the left corner, which was hidden. “There are cameras everywhere,” the person said. They were wearing a face mask and a cap, so I couldn’t clearly see their face.

“Madam Shiba, I know you have been facing torture and brutality. When are you planning to leave this place? I can help you leave,” the person said.

I simply sighed. “There are many reasons why I can’t leave. Who are you?” I asked.

“It’s not important to know who I am. Are the children stopping you from leaving? They are already old. Henry also loves and guards them dearly; you don’t have to worry about them having a tough life,” the person said.

“It’s not just the children; you won’t understand,” I said.

“Okay, I will give you these memory cards. They are in this necklace. I don’t know if I will make it out of Muni alive, as they have been tracing me, but I worked hard to get this information. It contains Henry’s secrets, your friend’s passing, and everything I think you would want to know,” the person hurriedly said as he handed me a necklace.

The information was too much for me to digest at the moment. “Wait, who is tracking you?” I asked.

“Shiba, you really don’t know what Henry is like, what he has done, and what he is capable of—not just him, but his entire family! By the way, your phone is monitored 24/7; they can know every conversation you are having, who you are talking to, etc. Don’t use it for anything confidential. God willing, I will see you again. Guard that information; it’s my lifelong work,” the man said before he quickly headed in the opposite direction in hurried footsteps.

“Madam, what are you doing here?” a security staff member suddenly asked.

I was startled; I tightly held the necklace as I turned to face him. “I just came out to have some fresh air,” I calmly said.

“Oh, okay. Your father was looking for you. It seems your family is leaving,” the guard said.

“Alright, I will be there in a second. Let me just use the bathroom,” I said before walking away.

Chapter 29: Indirect Alienation.

My social media was blowing up with different messages. Some people were congratulating Henry and Lilly’s union as though they didn’t know their social media accounts; some were telling me to treat Lilly well, while others straight up told me to just disappear from Henry’s life.

I actually agreed with some. If I could disappear, it would really be great. However, that would never happen. With Henry around, there is nowhere I could run to.

I decided to just wear the necklace as I looked for means to view the contents of the flash drives. I couldn’t make the mistake of using any computers in the house; I hadn’t forgotten the warning I got that day. The man told me that my phone had been hacked. What else was in this house?

I got two packages that I had personally packed for the children. I had made a crocheted sweater for Klain and a crocheted dress for Massey. She always loved my crocheting, asking me to make her purses, earrings, and hand bracelets.
She also wanted to learn, but Henry sternly warned her to focus only on her studies and not participate in useless activities.

Since I hadn’t given them birthday gifts, I knew they would be grumpy. I first went to Massey’s room; she had just taken a bath. “Mom! Finally, I can bother you with my hair!” Massey whined.

I simply smiled; she has always been lazy with her hair. I immediately took over and blow-dried it for her. “Mom, you aren’t angry with Dad about Aunt Lilly, right?” Massey asked.

“Why would I be? Will you become angry with your husband when he marries another woman later?” I jokingly asked.

“Yes, I will be! Why aren’t you angry? Although Aunt Lilly is nice, I just don’t want her as a second mom,” Massey complained.

“You are still young; what do you know about marriage?” I sighed as I gently brushed her hair.

I gave Lilly her dress; she immediately unpacked it and loved it very much. I then went towards Klain’s room.

“I made you a sweater. How do you like it?” I asked.

“It’s good. Listen, Mom, don’t make any more clothes for me. Aunt Lilly already bought me many clothes that I simply can’t finish putting on. Plus, no one wears such sweaters at school,” Klain said.

I knew that Lilly always bought the children things; Henry always supported her in everything she did. I was, however, somewhat sad at Klain’s words. I was lost for words. I knew that Klain had grown up; such crocheted sweaters were now shameful to a teen boy like him.

“Is it because you have grown up? You used to like wearing my sweaters a lot,” I jokingly said.

“Klain has indeed grown. Don’t make any more sweaters or dresses for Massey; they have to start dressing like their status,” Henry said as he sat beside Klain.

“Dad!” Klain excitedly called.

“How are your studies going?” Henry asked.

“Great! I got straight A’s!” Klain said.

“That’s my boy! You are brilliant, just like your dad!” Henry praised, causing Klain to beam with happiness.

“By the way, Aunt Lilly was afraid that you would be sad due to the wedding announcement,” Henry ‘worriedly’ said.

“I am not sad; I love Aunt Lilly,” Klain said, causing Henry to laugh brightly and brush his hair with his hand.

I don’t know why, but every word that came from Klain’s mouth just pierced my heart. I slowly stood up, gathered my sweater, and left the room, going to the master bedroom.

“The kids love Lilly; it’s only you who hasn’t adjusted over the years,” I heard Henry say as he entered the room behind me. I was busy arranging the sweaters together with others that I had made. I would send them to my younger sisters and brothers back home; they appreciated everything I made.

“After all these years, your jealousy is now draining. Prepare yourself to welcome Lilly officially; she will be a member of the Charpil family. I don’t want to watch a show of you fighting with her,” Henry said as he headed toward the bathroom.

I angrily watched the closed door. Henry always called me jealous, but why would I be jealous of Lilly? I was just feeling helpless. I had noticed that Lilly and Henry always took the twins to expensive places, just the two of them, as though they were the only true parents.

They simply refused to tell me about their travel plans. If I asked, Lilly would weakly say that she had just abruptly thought about the trip, and Henry would immediately inflict harm on me when we were alone. I had finally given up on asking.

They would always downplay the gifts I made for the children and call them outdated. Sometimes, due to the children’s simple minds, they would, of course, take their father’s words seriously, completely refusing the things I made for them.

This continued to happen when they had parent-teacher meetings. Lilly would always be present, even if I was around. Klain seemed to like her, and that wasn’t a problem on my part; the problem came when Klain wanted to do every parent activity with only Lilly and Henry.

Henry told me not to think too much about it, as I just couldn’t understand some assignments given to the kids. Lilly understood, therefore she was the right fit.

I could clearly see that I was slowly being alienated from my own children; however, I didn’t lose hope. Klain and Massey knew that I was their mother and treated me as one. That’s all that mattered. Lilly and Henry’s actions still hurt me, but I chose to stay strong.

I reminisced as I took the clothes outside the room. I would tell Demilia to properly distribute them to my family.

Days passed by, I was trying to find time to study the contents of the necklace; however, I simply couldn’t.

Luck came one Wednesday. Klain and Massey had a school sports activity, but Henry couldn’t make it as he had a very important meeting. I was therefore responsible for them as a parent. However, Lilly still tagged along.

We headed towards the school’s grounds; the vigorous atmosphere could be seen among the kids at school.

“Aunt Lilly, my friends loved the chocolate you bought last time,” Klain brightly said.

“Oh, unfortunately, it was imported from abroad. I have to place an order for the next one, but for my boy Klain, I can place all the orders you want!” Lilly said.

Klain smiled brightly. “You are the best!” he said as he ran towards his friends.

“Slow down,” I shouted slowly as I warned him.

“Klain is just young and vigorous; just let him be,” Lilly smiled as she said.

I really wanted to tell her to shut up! However, I knew she would run to Henry at the slightest negative word from me, leading to misery on my part.

“Massey, aren’t you joining your friends?” Lilly asked.

“No, I want to spend the day with Mom,” Massey said.

“Oh,” Lilly said as she looked around.

I immediately led Massey towards the receptionist area and told Klain to follow me.

“Hello, I am the mother of Massey and Klain Charpil. Which sport are they playing?” I asked.

When the receptionists heard the name Charpil, they immediately stood up with smiles. “Massey is participating in swimming while Klain is taking part in golf,” one receptionist said.

They then gave us slips with numbers to follow. We walked towards the respective areas. I took Klain to the golf course and warned him to be careful as I gave his teacher the refreshments that I had the chef prepare.

“Don’t worry, I will watch over Klain,” Lilly said. I just ignored her as I took Massey to her swimming grounds.

Surprisingly, she had packed my crocheted swimwear. “Didn’t your father warn you not to put this on again?” I asked.

“He did, but I like it,” Massey replied. I helplessly smiled as I tied her hair in a ponytail.

“Listen, Massey, after you are done with swimming, Mom will excuse herself to go somewhere. It will be our little secret; don’t tell anyone about it,” I said.

“Okay!” Massey brightly replied. I gently smiled as I pecked her forehead.

Chapter 30: Revelations.

When the swimming competition came to an end, I quickly ran towards Massey and hugged her. “You are so great! You came in second!” I said with joy.

Massey smiled happily as she giggled. “Alright, Mum will go somewhere. Where are your friends?” I asked.

“Over there,” Massey pointed at a group of little girls talking to their parents.

“Let me first talk to your teacher,” I said as I walked towards Massey’s swim teacher.

“Hello, I want to briefly go somewhere. I will be back soon. Can I leave my daughter in your care?” I asked.

“No problem, we haven’t even celebrated. The winners have to take home prizes; it’s okay to leave Massey here,” the teacher elaborated.

“Okay, I am Massey’s mother. Please watch over her for me; I will be back shortly,” I said.

“No problem, it’s our responsibility as teachers to keep an eye on our students,” she replied.

I sighed in relief as I left. I would quickly find out the contents of the drives, make a copy, and store these drives in the necklace again. This was someone’s lifelong work; I had to handle it with care.

I stealthily left school and asked around for an internet café. I was pointed to a very high-standard one, I guess because of the clothes I was wearing.

However, I wanted everything to be done secretly; that’s why I left my phone in Massey’s bag. That man had told me that it had a tracker in it, and I couldn’t risk it.

I went to a nearby shop, removed my clothes, put on everyday clothes, and headed to a hidden internet café.

“What can I do for you, beautiful?” a man with multiple hair colors said as he attentively looked at me.

“Well, can you retrieve the images or pictures on memory cards?” I asked.

“Of course, that’s so simple. Let’s see these memory cards first,” the man extended his hands as he requested. I hesitated; this place was so open, with some people looking in our direction. I didn’t want the information to be leaked.

The man seemed to sense my worry. “So secretive? Okay, follow me,” he said as he walked towards another room. I followed behind him.

There were two thin men with glasses in there, heads bowed as they typed away on their computers.

“Hm? Who is this beauty? I would remember if I met someone like her,” one man at the laptop said as he noticed our presence.

“This is our special client; confidential information retrieval,” the man who brought me in said.

“Oh, look at my mouth! I am Dot; he is Sign,” the man said as he pointed at himself, then at the other man whose head hadn’t left the computer.

“I am Cable,” the guy who brought me in said. I was suddenly confused by their names. “We don’t use our names for security reasons,” Cable added.

“Sign? Quickly install your firewall; we have to retrieve some important information,” Cable said.

“One moment, let me finish this code,” Sign said before loudly pressing a button on the computer and turning to us.

“Damn, you weren’t lying, Dot; I am blinded by beauty,” Sign said. I was amused by them.

“Stop playing around; quickly work on her,” Cable said.

Sign then asked for the memory cards, and I handed them to him. He first pressed some keys that I couldn’t understand on the computer, then put the memory cards in some drive—I don’t know—before inserting it into the computer. He gave the other card to Dot, who did the same.

“Let’s see… what could be hidden here?” Dot curiously said.

On Sign’s computer, a video had already opened. I saw Tanti! She was following Zire stealthily while filming with her phone. Suddenly, I saw Zire meet up with some man who threw what seemed to be a drugged girl. Zire then proceeded to open the car boot and throw the girl in.

“Shit, this is serious,” the sign said as he increased the volume.

“The other one died,” the man talking to Zire in the video said.

“How long will this go on? I am losing money!” Zire shouted.

As the video progressed, Tanti might have been shocked by the events as her phone fell to the ground. The man talking to Zire immediately ran towards her direction before pulling her by her hand and bringing her to Zire.

“Sir, it’s your wife,” the man in the video said.

“Shit! Tanti! You have always been nosy. We have a great time together; why do you have to spoil it?” Zire, in the video, furiously shouted.

“What should we do, sir?” the man asked.

“Check her phone first. Let’s hope nothing was spread out,” Zire commanded.

The man then forcefully took Tanti’s phone and pressed somewhere, possibly deleting the video.

“Zire, what is this? What are you going to do with that girl?” Tanti, in the video, asked.

“Tanti! I really liked you; you also know that. I am sorry,” Zire said in the video before grabbing Tanti’s head and banging it hard against the nearby concrete wall, causing her to immediately go limp. He then proceeded to check her vitals before he threw her in the car.

“Let’s go; we shall handle her case just like any other,” Zire said before the cars drove away. The footage came to an end.

“Shit! Shit! This is bad!” Sign said. I discovered that tears had run down my face; I quickly wiped them away. I knew it! It wasn’t an accident; Tanti, my childhood friend, was simply murdered!

“Provide a copy to me; send it on this phone,” I said. I had bought a new, cheap smartphone since the other one was being tracked. I would use this one instead.

“Damn, ma’am, the money will increase a bit. This isn’t a simple video; we are all in this together now,” Cable said.

“No problem,” I said. I had money that I had saved over the years in case of anything.

“Guys!” Dot suddenly called in a frightened voice.

I headed towards his direction; what I saw made a chill run down my body. A body of a man was put in a drum as a man in a mask poured some chemicals into it. I saw smoke—vapour—rise from the drum as the man’s body sunk deeper.

“How did you handle that girl, Sophie? She works in your house?” the man in the video asked a man who was outside the camera’s lens. However, no answer was heard from that man as the video came to an end.

My heart immediately dropped. Wasn’t that Henry? Sophie was working at Henry’s house!

“We have to close this café down, effective immediately!” I heard Cable say.

“Please make a copy; I will have to bring justice to my friend!” I said.

Dot and Sign made copies and returned the cards back to me. I placed them back in the necklace.

“We shall leave Muni now. As for you, ma’am, I will give you a piece of advice: if you know the people in this video, just leave this place. You can’t bring such people to justice,” Cable said as he quickly left.

I thanked them and gave them a grateful sum of money before I left. I then changed back into my former clothes and headed back to Massey’s school; however, my whole body was shivering in fright at what I had witnessed.

This group of people were murderers; they were capable of doing anything. Suddenly, Henry’s brutal actions made sense. This was what he basically did; I guess it was simply normal to him!

When I arrived at school, I saw an ambulance entering the premises and parents whispering. I therefore asked one parent what the problem was.

“A child in the swimming team just had an allergic reaction. Her parent is also a careless one, leaving her alone at such an event!” the parent exclaimed.

My heart stopped as I quickly ran towards the swimming arena. I hoped that it wasn’t Massey; I prayed that it wasn’t my daughter!

Chapter 31: Expose Him or Die trying.

Massey was allergic to nuts; everyone at home and school knew that. We were always careful when packing things for her consumption.

Henry had also commanded the chefs to throw away anything with any portion of nuts in it.

I hoped it wasn’t Massey that the parents were talking about because the chef and I had never made a mistake while packing food for her!

When I reached the place,the situation in the swimming arena was chaotic; paramedics were giving a young girl on a stretcher first aid.

I quickly ran in their direction, and to my alarm, it was Massey lying on that stretcher. I immediately held her hand as I soothed her hair in tears. A medical paramedic was trying to get me to let go. How could I?

“I am her mother,” I said to the medical team.

“Ma’am, we now have to take the child to the hospital. She is out of danger now, but we still have to properly monitor her situation,” a woman I assumed was a nurse said.

I quickly shook my head in understanding as I let Massey be carried away. However, I wondered how Massey could have ingested anything associated with nuts! Nothing containing them was packed!

I quickly rushed to the teacher who had promised to take very good care of Massey before asking her what led to her situation.

“I am so sorry, ma’am. A young boy in her class gave her a drink unknowingly; a certain lady told him to,” the teacher apologetically said.

“Who is that lady?” I asked.

“The little boy can’t seem to remember. I am sorry; I should have been more careful,” the teacher said.

“Shiba? What happened? Where is Massey?” I heard Lilly ask as she walked in my direction with Klain.

“Klain, let the driver take you home. Mom will go be with Massey,” I gently held Klain’s face as I said.

I had no time to waste on Lilly, so I hurriedly followed behind the paramedics as I carried Massey’s bag.

“Such a careless parent! Where had she gone? Isn’t she Mr. Henry’s wife? I saw her on the news,” I heard whispers from surrounding parents as I rushed by.

I sat in the ambulance, and we headed to Muni Main Hospital. Massey had been put out of danger and could now talk; however, she had swollen spots all over her skin.

“Massey, do you remember who gave you that drink? I mean the woman who told the boy to give it to you?” I immediately asked when we reached the hospital and Massey was lying down on the hospital bed.

“No,” Massey replied as she attempted to scratch her skin. I immediately stopped her actions.

“Don’t scratch; bear with it a little. It will slowly go away,” I sighed as I said.

“Didn’t I warn you not to take or drink anything from strangers?” I gently asked.

“I am sorry, Mom; it won’t happen again,” Massey apologetically said. I could only smile before arranging her hair.

“Don’t take things from strangers again,” I said.

“Where were you? Why could she take anything from anyone when you were supposed to be watching her?” I heard Henry say as he entered the room. My body immediately tensed.

“Dad! It’s not Mom’s fault; I was wrong,” Massey immediately said.

“Okay, how are you feeling now? I was worried sick when I was told about your condition,” Henry smiled as he asked, sitting beside Massey.

“I am fine! It wasn’t anything big,” Massey replied.

“Your brother and Lilly were worried about you too; they simply couldn’t go home, so they came with me,” Henry said.

Suddenly, the door opened, and Lilly, holding Klain’s hand, walked in.
“Please place them at the table,” Lilly gently requested of the driver who was following behind with food containers.

“Lilly asked the chef to cook your favorite food; see if you like it,” Henry said.

Massey looked at Lilly before she shook her head in understanding, picked up the food package, and started eating slowly.

After some time, the doctor entered and informed us that Massey was out of danger and that there was nothing to worry about.

“Thank God you are fine. Daddy was really worried. Your grandparents sent me a request; they will pick you up today. This gave them a scare, so spend a few days there and relieve their tension, okay?” Henry said as he gently stroked Massey’s shoulders.

“Okay, but please don’t blame Mom; it wasn’t her fault,” Massey said.

“Of course, you never worry about yourself, always about others,” Henry said as he gently smiled at Massey.

An hour passed, and Mr. Musa’s driver came to pick up Massey. Henry told Klain to go with her sister too.

“Lilly, please send greetings to Dad and Mom, and escort the children well,” Henry said as he gently held Lilly’s hand.

“Don’t worry, I will make sure that nothing happens to them,” Lilly said.

“Okay,” Henry said as he lifted his hand and gently stroked Lilly’s hair. Lilly smiled gently before sitting in the car. The car quickly disappeared.

I wanted to personally escort Massey and Klain, but I simply couldn’t say a thing; Henry had already decided.

“Let’s go home and have a proper chat, shall we?” Henry said as he held my hand, leading me toward the hospital parking lot.

Henry told his driver to take the day off, as he would personally drive me home. He quickly stepped on the gas, driving straight there.

When we reached home,he told Demilia to let all the employees retire early for the day before leading me upstairs.

I immediately knew his intentions, but there was nothing I could do.

Henry tied my hands with his necktie and tied me to the bedpost. He then proceeded to angrily unbuckle his suit belt.

“I am so tired of you, Shiba. You literally make living in the same space as you unbearable! Where had you gone?” Henry asked.

I could never reveal anything about the internet café; that would literally put me in danger or even get me killed! I couldn’t take that risk.

“Hm? Can’t talk?” Henry rhetorically asked as his facial muscles twitched before striking my face with the belt. I immediately screamed in pain and terror.

“I will ask you again: where had you gone?” Henry asked.

I could only cry in pain, as the agony on my face was tremendous.

Henry rapidly struck me on every part of my body. My dress eventually ripped, and blood dripped from my arms, face, and head, but Henry didn’t stop.

“I can kill you right at this very moment, and no one will bat an eye; that’s how worthless your life is,” Henry calmly said before he folded his shirt and threw the belt aside.

“Where were you?” Henry repeated as he lifted my head by my hair and punched me directly in the face.

The pain was too much for me to handle as Henry kicked me in the stomach, slapped me, and punched me several times.

My face was covered with blood mixed with tears. I couldn’t die without revealing what kind of monster this man and Zire were! I thought as I was on the brink of collapse.

Suddenly, Henry stopped his actions. My eyes couldn’t open at this point, so I couldn’t see what Henry was doing.

“Pearl? Yes, there is an emergency; come and have a look,” I heard Henry say before I fainted.

When I woke up, my head was wrapped in a bandage; only one of my eyes could open with great difficulty. I saw Henry sitting in the corner as he watched me.

“We have to take her to the hospital; I simply can’t treat her from here,” I heard Pearl say to Henry.

“Take her there then; such ill luck!” Henry said as he moved out of the room, shutting the door behind him with a bang. I immediately shivered in fright.

“You had a miscarriage,” Demilia bluntly said.

Grief immediately overcame me. I didn’t know I was pregnant! My child didn’t get to see the light of this world all because of that monster! My hatred for Henry immediately reached an all-time high.

I would make sure to expose him or die trying!

Chapter 32: Should have been an actor.

I was immediately led to the hospital, and Pearl personally escorted me there.

When the doctors who examined me saw my situation, they showed expressions of astonishment but then later looked away as though they hadn’t noticed anything, proceeding with the examination. I guess they worked for the Charpils too. Who in Muni didn’t? How could I expose Henry?

I immediately thought about the Muni police station. Although the Charpils would have connections there, the entire police department couldn’t be working for them, could it?

An idea came to mind: I would stealthily escape from here and head toward the police station! I had the videos; I would openly make all the police officers watch them! Even if those connections were inside, the truth wouldn’t be hidden!

The doctors finished their check-ups and explained some things to Pearl. Pearl nodded in understanding.

“Shiba, you will be put on a medical drip for about one hour, then we shall go back home,” Pearl commented. I immediately nodded in understanding.

Pearl sighed as she pitifully looked at me before sitting on a nearby couch. I wanted to find a way to leave, but with Pearl keeping watch, that might seem difficult.

Some minutes passed, and Pearl didn’t leave. I was becoming frustrated! Time was passing by; I didn’t want to return to that house.

“Pearl, could you please get me some coffee?” I weakly asked.

“It’s not good to drink coffee in your situation. Wait for some minutes; your drip is almost done. You can eat anything you want at home,” Pearl said.

I guess God was working in my favor at this very moment as Pearl received a phone call from someone requiring her to step out for a bit.

I quickly removed the needle connected to the cannula and threw on a nearby hospital gown that one of the doctors had left behind.

I then proceeded to use the door that the doctors from before had used; they didn’t pass through the main door but another one.

I hurriedly removed the coat when I reached the hospital entrance and threw it in the nearby trash can. I then pretended to be a patient as I limped off the hospital grounds.

Some of my bandages simply couldn’t hide my wounds, as blood had started seeping into them.

It was at night; my state may have alarmed some people as they looked at me worriedly while I passed by them, but I simply didn’t pay them any mind.

I immediately touched behind my back and felt the secret phone that I had hidden in my bra. I removed it and checked its condition; thankfully, it hadn’t been harmed!

I hailed a taxi and headed to the nearest police station. I paid via my phone and immediately went in.

I attracted the attention of all the police officers around due to my state; my entire face was completely wrapped up, and I cut a very sorry figure.

“Hello, please have a seat. Let me call someone to assist you,” a very polite police officer said as he led me to the nearby seats.

“I don’t want you to call anyone. I also don’t trust the police. I came here today because I hoped that there would at least be one police officer who would ensure that justice is served no matter what!” I confidently said as I stood up from the chair with the support of a nearby table.

Most police officers stopped what they were doing and turned to face me.

“Madam, please don’t imply that we are not trustworthy. We work to serve and protect! No one is above the law! Quickly tell us what is wrong now,” I heard a loud voice say, coming from a nearby office.

“Chief!” all the police officers shouted.

“I want everyone in this room to watch the videos I have. Every one of you today will let me know if a lowly Muni civilian has rights or not,” I said as I gave my phone to the police officer who gave me a seat.

The police officer awkwardly received the phone as he looked at the police chief.

“What? Quickly connect the projection; we are the Muni police station!” the chief commanded.

The projection was therefore connected, and the videos played. There was silence in the room after all the revelations.

When I turned around, the police chief was no longer standing where he had previously been. I immediately became suspicious!

“So? What do you all think? That is Zire in the video, one of Muni’s richest hires, and the other is Henry Charpil. Will you ensure justice, or will you submit to power?” I immediately asked the surrounding officers, who stood in shock, bewildered and anxious.

“Oh, another case I want to file: attempted murder and assault by my husband, Henry Charpil. What you are seeing right now was his work,” I added. There was an uproar among the police officers.

“Impossible!” I immediately heard a policewoman say in astonishment.

“I thought so; the police are also just like puppets,” I said as I immediately rushed to leave. I couldn’t wait for Henry to find me here!

“Madam! Please wait a moment; let’s first receive your statement!” the police chief, who had returned from God knows where, said.

“Do you really want to receive my statement?” I intently looked at him as I asked. If he was working with the rich, wasn’t Muni doomed?

“Yes, yes, of course. Come and sit back down. Also, give us the videos; we want to clearly analyze them. Are those the originals?” the chief asked as he walked towards me.

I immediately sneered at his words. He was really working with either Zire or Charpil! Why did he want to know where the original videos were?

I dashed out of the police station as I ran with a limp.

“Everyone! Go get her! She might not be mentally stable!” I heard the police chief give an order from afar.

My heart was racing, and my blood boiled. So, a lowlife in Muni wasn’t worth a second thought? So, the rich could actually get away with anything? Tanti’s life was really not worth a damn to these people!

I thought helplessly as I ran on. I didn’t know what to do next; I really tried.

I heard police sirens from a distance and knew that they had indeed followed their chief’s orders. I ran to the opposite building and hid in the nearby alley.

I immediately typed to my brother that if this was the last time I was alive, he wouldn’t have to wonder who did it; Tanti could maybe get justice later on.

“Where did she go? A police chief like you can’t even catch a girl?” I heard a voice that I knew very well: Henry!

My body involuntarily shuddered, and I knocked over a nearby empty bottle on the ground.

“Over there, Shibaaa! So, you had gone to get those videos? Come on out; I might actually put this behind us,” I heard Henry chuckle as he said footsteps rushing to my direction.

I immediately ran towards the end of the alley where I could see cars passing by.

“Shit! Shiba! Don’t make me do something you don’t want to see! Stop right now!” Henry commanded. I could feel the anger and anxiety in his words.

I slowly chuckled in amazement. So Henry could also get anxious? What a joke.

I emerged from the alley and saw Henry together with the police chief in the distance.

I immediately ran on; there were people here, and Henry and the police could think twice about doing anything to me!

This was a bridge that was always busy; cars, motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles frequented this area.

“Mom, look,” I heard a child’s voice cry as the child pointed in my direction. I then saw the mother quickly pull the child away as they hurriedly walked off.

“Help! Those lunatics are out to get me!” I suddenly screamed.

“Shiba!” I suddenly heard Henry’s voice call from afar. Some people paused their activities, and some picked up their phones to record after seeing Henry.

“Wife, please come back home! The children will be sad. I will make sure to get you all the help you need, please,” Henry called as he slowly walked towards me.

“I knew that woman wasn’t mentally stable. Look, she is even putting on a hospital gown,” I heard whispers in the crowd say.

“What can’t you people see? I am not crazy! Henry is a lying, manipulating psychopath! He is a murderer and an abuser!” I cried. Different people looked at me with disbelief. I helplessly looked at them; it wasn’t their fault; the media had painted Henry in a way that no one could believe my words.

“Okay, Shiba, I am a murderer. I am whatever you call me. Please don’t harm yourself anymore. Come home with me; I will personally take care of you,” Henry said as the distance between us narrowed.

I sneered at him. “You are worse than the devil himself, Henry. Now that I think about it, what kind of twisted, sick person are you?” I rhetorically asked.

I immediately passed through the bridge handles as I stepped on the edge of the rails.

There was great uproar from the surrounding people; some men immediately left their cars and attempted to run towards me.

“Police chief! Quickly save my wife! Shiba, look, I have stepped away; I won’t come close, okay? Come back! All of you, don’t approach my wife; she might actually jump if you try to forcefully stop her!” Henry shouted.

I calmly and intently looked at Henry’s ‘worried’ look. “Henry, did you really once love? I want to see what you are like when you love someone. Do you actually love Lilly?” I asked.

“Is it about Lilly? Okay, I will not marry her. Look, I will immediately make a call right now; I will have her sent back abroad, okay?” Henry once again acted. I knew that there was no talking to him.

“Is she jealous? Just because her husband married a second wife! Such women are unbearable! Just a headache!” I heard people condemn.

In my second life, I really never want to be born in Muni. I thought as I looked at the spectating crowd.

“Take very good care of Massey and Klain, that’s my very last request,” I said.

“Shiba!” Henry shouted in ‘disbelief’.

“You should really have been an actor, just like that TV host suggested; that’s what suits you the best,” I said. I saw Henry’s lips twitch as he bore a frustrated look before I let go. Screams immediately penetrated my ears, and police car sirens were heard.

“She jumped! She really jumped!” I heard a loud voice from the crowd say.

I chose to leave this world on my own terms; I refused to die by Henry’s filthy hands. I was finally going to meet Tanti. I hoped that my family wouldn’t be sad.

The water welcomed me with open arms. I didn’t know how to swim, so I knew what awaited me.

Chapter 33: Looking forward to the future.

My head hurt! Every part of my body hurt. Where was I?

“Richard! She is awake,” I heard someone shout.

I tried opening my eyes, but the light was so bright that I immediately closed them again. Someone quickly closed the curtains as though they sensed my misery.

I then slowly opened them again. I looked at the tall man before me, who was also looking at me with worry and wonder.

The doctor beside him was also astonished as he proceeded to do some check-ups.

“Hello, who are you?” I immediately asked.

“I am Richard Stone. What should I call you? Do you remember where you are from?” Richard asked.

My head suddenly went blank. What was my name? Where was I from? I tried to think hard, but tremendous pain shot through my head.

“Don’t force yourself. You had a concussion; being alive in itself is a big miracle,” the doctor said.

“Don’t ask her anything anymore,” the doctor told Richard.

“Okay,” Richard complied.

I tried getting up, but I simply couldn’t.

“Let me help you,” Richard requested as he proceeded to lift me up and place me in a nearby wheelchair.

I was startled by his actions but thanked him nonetheless. Richard politely nodded before giving me some warm water to drink.

“You are really a miracle. I had just come to the Huner and Muni border to oversee a project when you were discovered,” Richard said.

I curiously looked at him as I didn’t remember anything. “You seemed to have drowned. I can’t tell; you just washed up at the shore where my business partners and I had a meeting. Dr. Fred noted that if we had been a step too late, you might have died,” Richard elaborated.

I gently shook my head in understanding. “Thank you, sir,” I said.

“Call me Richard. No need to thank me. By the way, it’s been two months since we discovered you. We tried connecting you to anyone in Huner, but it seems you aren’t from here. Dr. Fred also observed that your body has different scars that seem to have accumulated over a very long time; it appears you were abused by someone,” Richard added.

I slowly took in the information before lifting the hand that was holding the cup. There were indeed several scars!

“So, we somehow stopped looking for your family after that. We feared we could accidentally return you to your attacker,” Richard elaborated.

“Thank you,” I softly said as I continued to drink; I was really thirsty.

“However, we are leaving for Dun country in two days,” Richard said.

I was suddenly at a loss. What was I to do now? I didn’t remember anyone at all.

“I just had a suggestion: why don’t you come with us to Dun? When you recover your memories, you can come back anytime and look for your family,” Richard suggested.

I thought about his suggestion; it would be good to trust Richard and the doctor. They nursed me back to health, and I didn’t have anything to pay them.

Even if I refused and stayed, I didn’t know anyone, so I therefore didn’t have anywhere to start from. I was also troubled at the thought that I had been abused. Maybe my parents weren’t good people? It might be the reason I drowned.

After weighing the pros and cons, I chose to go with Richard’s suggestion.

“Okay,” I replied.

“Good, I will tell my secretary to prepare the travel documents,” Richard said as he stood up to make a call.

I noticed that Richard was a very sensible man. Although he had a stone face and barely showed any emotions, I could still tell that he was genuine. I liked his stone face; his name suited him a lot, I thought as I secretly chuckled.

Richard slightly turned in my direction, and I immediately buried my face in the cup, feeling guilty.

Richard finished making a call and turned back to me as he sat in the nearby chair.

“Well, the travel plans are made. I told her to buy you some clothes and jackets; it’s going to be winter over there,” Richard said.

I simply nodded in understanding.

“That necklace seems to be very important to you. You tightly held onto it when we first discovered you,” Richard commented.

I immediately touched the necklace around my neck. “I don’t know; I can’t remember,” I said.

Richard nodded in understanding. “I will get going; I have some business to handle. Just make yourself at home,” Richard said as he stood up to leave.

“Okay, go safely,” I slowly said. Richard once again nodded towards me as he left.

I slowly held onto the wheelchair handles and stood up, walking towards the window to look out. I didn’t know why, but I felt very happy and relaxed; I felt like I could float.

I saw Richard’s broad back heading towards the car. When he was about to enter, he seemed to notice something and looked towards my window.

I didn’t hide and just waved goodbye to him. I saw him give his signature head nod before he sat in the car, which then disappeared from afar.

I slowly returned to the bed and sat down. After a few minutes, an elderly woman came in with a package.

“Hello,” I politely greeted.

The woman gently smiled as folds appeared on either side of her eyes and lips.

“Call me Betty; these clothes were sent by Richard’s secretary,” the woman said.

“Aunty Betty, I hope I didn’t bother you too much during my stay,” I said.

Betty slowly walked towards me and sat down on the bed.

You were not a bother, child. Whatever you have been through, I think it was good that you forgot about it. You can now start anew. When I first saw your scars and wounds, I couldn’t imagine someone doing such acts to another person,” Betty sighed as she said.

“It’s okay. I guess my resilience was strong. I survived after all, didn’t I?” I smiled as I said.

Betty nodded. “That’s good that you survived,” she said, but I could tell that her mind was in a very far place.

“Look at me! I was crocheting some sweaters for those bratty kids outside. How could I forget? I am getting old!” Betty said as she stood up.

I don’t know why, but when I heard “crocheting,” I suddenly felt that I knew how to do it too.

“Aunty, can I also have the crocheting needle and thread? I seem to know how to,” I suddenly asked.

“How can you crochet? You are still sick!” Betty exclaimed.

I helplessly smiled. “I am alright; staying in bed is also draining,” I said.

Betty hesitated but later complied with my request. I immediately started stitching and crocheting. I remembered that Richard said there would be winter in Dun, so I decided to crochet a pair of gloves for him to thank him for his help and hospitality.

Days quickly went by, and the day of departure arrived. Aunt Betty gave me a crocheted sweater, and I gave her some gloves I made. She smiled brightly as she wished us a safe journey.

I then followed behind Richard and headed towards the car. “Sir, I made these for you,” I said as I gave him the crocheted gloves.

I saw Dr. Fred laugh out loud before getting a glare from Richard.

“Don’t take it the wrong way; I just have never seen Richard in such gloves. When I pictured it, I couldn’t help but laugh,” Fred said.

I then saw Richard slowly put them on. I had crocheted a grumpy cat on them, taking Richard’s face into consideration.

The gloves fit Richard so well; surprisingly, they matched his coat.

“Hm? Not bad. What about me?” Dr. Fred inquired. I helplessly looked at him; I hadn’t made any for him.

“Ignore him,” Richard said as the car accelerated on the highway.

Suddenly, a convoy passed by us on the highway.

“Wow, it wasn’t a lie; this wealthy hire in Muni country is really something. Just lost a wife but remarried in the next month? Cultures sure are different,” Fred said.

I curiously watched the convoy disappear in the distance.

“Nothing interesting about him,” Richard said.

We reached the airport and boarded the plane. I looked forward to the future.

Chapter 34: Miracle Swan.

At Dun Airport, Richard went to the reception area to handle some documentation with the authorities. It was indeed winter in Dun; the wind was still, and snowflakes gently fell on the ground. I put out my hands as some snow fell on them.

People from Dun were really tall. I saw that even the women were tall and beautiful; some could even drive motorcycles, which I didn’t think I had seen before back in Huner.

“Let’s go; you are going to freeze. It’s not good for you to stay in the cold,” Richard said as he approached me from the reception area.

I slowly followed behind him, although I had some slight body ache; it was a bit bearable.

“Your name will be Miracle Swan from now on,” Richard rigidly said.

I was slightly startled and surprised at the name. “Did you choose it?” I asked.

Richard slightly coughed; I could tell that he was embarrassed, and I was suddenly amused.

“What inspired it?” I asked.

“Well, you are a miracle to have floated like a swan as a human and stayed alive,” Richard replied as we reached the checkpoint. The authorities quickly did their part, and we proceeded to the exit gate; however, we took a detour and headed towards the VIP exit.

“It’s easier going through this gate; too much traffic and congestion on the other side,” Richard said.

I nodded in understanding. I had briefly studied Richard’s ways; it seemed that he was very rich but not extravagant; he used his wealth for convenience and nothing else.

“You guys took way too long!” Fred said from a distance, standing beside a car.

“Let’s go; a swan can’t walk for too long,” Richard said as he personally opened the door for me. I smiled at him as I thanked him.

Richard closed the car door behind him after I sat down, then went to the left side of the car, opened the door, and also sat down.

Fred sat in the front seat beside the driver, who I learned was called Timmy.

“Damn, Timmy, did you only go to the gym when we were away? You’ve added more muscle!” Dr. Fred said enviously.

Timmy helplessly laughed at his words as he concentrated on driving.

“I have an older sister named Michelle; she is a fashion designer. She is launching her latest collection all over the world, so she is busy. I wanted you to stay with her for the time being, but it seems that will be impossible, so you will stay at my house for now,” Richard explained to me.

I nodded in understanding; I could go along with whatever Richard had planned for me. Richard seemed to relax at my understanding as he switched on his laptop and started typing. It seemed he was still working.

“I am so tired!” Fred said as he leaned against the chair’s headrest and closed his eyes.

I simply looked outside the car window; I was not sleepy. Dun was really advanced; everything was in order.
I saw women in different fashionable clothes as they hurriedly walked around the streets, possibly avoiding the snow.

The car finally arrived at a gated community, and security immediately lifted the bars after seeing Jimmy’s face.

“Drop me off here, Timmy,” Fred suddenly said after the car had driven for some distance.

“Fred stays at that house on the east side; he often comes to my house to eat,” Richard explained.

Fred snorted in dissatisfaction. “What do you mean I come to eat? I normally come to check up on your health!” Fred said as he moved out of the car, holding the car door.

I was suddenly surprised. Was Richard sick? He seemed healthy and normal. “Close the door; the wind isn’t good for Swan,” Richard glared at Fred as he commanded. Fred snorted as he closed the door, and Timmy proceeded to drive off. Fred’s figure was left to be seen in the distance.

I didn’t want to ask about Richard’s condition; it was rude to do so.

“I am not sick; it is something psychological from my childhood. I am, however, fine now; it’s Fred who is always worried,” Richard explained.

I nodded in understanding. Jimmy suddenly drove straight towards the villa’s garage. This house was beautiful; that’s what came to mind after seeing it.

Richard then led me inside the house. I quietly observed the environment; there was a fireplace in one of the rooms, which made the house warm.

“There is a heater in the house; you don’t have to be scared of the cold,” Richard said as he led me to a room that was still on the first floor before opening its door.

“I figured that walking might be difficult on your part, so I reserved this room. I also ordered clothes for you; you can check in the wardrobe. If there is anything you need, just tell me or call my phone. I bought you a new phone; everything is in there,” Richard explained.

I was overwhelmed by Richard’s provision. I vowed to be grateful and return the favor.

“Okay, thank you. I don’t think there is anything I want. Just, can I cook?” I asked. I wouldn’t be comfortable just sitting around the house without doing anything.

“You are here to nurse your health. There is an aunt who comes to cook; don’t bother yourself with this kind of work,” Richard said.

“I just want to,” I said in a low voice.

I heard Richard sigh. “Okay, just tell the aunt what you want to cook; she knows how and where to purchase ingredients,” he said. I happily shook my head in understanding; I couldn’t be a freeloader!

Richard was always busy, waking up early and arriving late. Every morning, Fred would come to check on my condition. He said I was getting better; I was also starting to feel energetic.

I finally mastered Richard’s schedule. I would wake up very early, prepare his breakfast, and pack some leftovers for him. He always told me not to bother, as his secretary ordered everything for him, but he still always ate the breakfast I made him.

I also asked the aunt to get me crocheting wool and a needle; I wasn’t bored in this big villa at all.

I made Richard different woolen sweaters that he surprisingly liked a lot, as he would wear them even under his suit! He said that they were very effective in winter, and he now rarely got cold outside.

On this very day, I was crocheting some stockings for Richard, Fred, Jimmy, and the aunt when I heard the door of the villa open. I thought it was Richard returning early, so I went to welcome him.

However, I saw a tall, beautiful lady on the opposite side who looked at me with surprise.

“Are you Swan?” the lady asked. I nodded at her in puzzlement; how did she know me?

“I am Michelle. Richard told me about you! How come he didn’t tell me you are this cute? You will definitely fit my Elle collection muse image!” Michelle excitedly said as she held my hand and led me inside the villa before closing the door.

I was startled by her energetic demeanor, but I wasn’t disturbed by it. I smiled as I told her to sit down.

“Would you like anything to drink?” I asked.

“No, come sit. Let’s just chat. Hm? What were you doing? Crocheting! You know how to!” Michelle exclaimed as she studied my crocheting. I helplessly shook my head.

“I really found myself a treasure!” Michelle said.

Time passed by, and Richard returned. He came back early today, possibly because of Michelle’s return.

He removed his coat and hung it up on the suit hanger. He was putting on the sweater I had previously made for him inside; he then walked towards us.

“Where did you get that sweater? How come my little brother is also turning cute now? What to do!” Michelle exclaimed.Richard immediately glared at her.

“I told you to pass by my office; why did you rush directly here?” Richard asked as he sat on the sofa opposite the one we were sitting on.

Michelle rolled her eyes as she closed her legs. “Why would I put myself in the misery of going to your building? The offices are filled with a workaholic atmosphere; I simply can’t put myself through that,” she said.

“She didn’t do anything weird, did she?” Richard suddenly asked me.

Michelle bore an offended expression. “What do you mean? What could I possibly do to this cute doll?” she exclaimed.

I suddenly blushed in embarrassment at her words. “She didn’t do anything; I will go and prepare dinner,” I said as I hurriedly left.

Michelle came to help out in the kitchen, but she almost cut herself with a knife, so I told her to patiently wait for the food.

When dinner was ready, Richard and Michelle helped arrange the table, and the food was then set out. The door suddenly opened at the same time; it was Fred.

When he saw Richard’s look, he awkwardly laughed as he greeted me and made himself comfortable at the dinner table.

“Richard, where did you get that sweater? Tell me so I can place an order. It seems comfy; I also want one!” Michelle said.

“Swan made it; it is indeed comfy,” Richard replied. I saw Michelle’s jaw drop.

“You made this! By hand!” she exclaimed.

“Yes, it takes a long time, but it’s not hard to make. If you want one, I can make it for you,” I said as everyone began serving themselves food.

“Don’t stress yourself over her; she has enough clothes,” Richard commented.

Michelle looked at Richard speechlessly, who ignored her gaze. Fred looked at her with some pity.

Dinner ended in harmony. Michelle was a jubilant person who liked talking about different topics; one wouldn’t get tired of her.

“Swan’s cooking is really exceptional!” Fred commented as he lay on a nearby sofa, rubbing his stomach.

“Go back home; the snow will increase soon,” Richard said, kicking his legs as he spoke.

“Don’t think I don’t know that you are chasing me away!” Fred accused.

“Now that you know, will you go?” Richard asked.

“Why should I leave? You are not the one who brought me here!” Fred replied.

The two bickered on. “Those two have been like this since high school; they are now fully grown but haven’t changed, tsk,” Michelle suddenly spoke beside me. She was holding a glass of wine; I didn’t know where she even got it from.

I also helplessly smiled at the two’s actions; I could tell that there was no malice in either of their words.

“Swan, what do you think about working with me?” Michelle suddenly asked. I was surprised at her suggestion; I knew that she was a fashion designer, and Richard had previously said so. However, I knew nothing about fashion!

“So suddenly?” I asked.

“It’s not sudden; I have seen what your hands can do. I am sure your fashion designs will also be great,” Michelle said.

“Give me a few days to think about it,” I said. Although I didn’t know anything about fashion, I would try to learn. This would help me show gratitude towards Richard and his sister.

Chapter 35: Be Mine Alone.

I finally made a decision to work with Michelle; Richard was, however, against it. He emphasized that I hadn’t fully healed and that I had to wait until then if I wanted to do any kind of work.

I had to abide by his words. Michelle told me that she would pick me up when I was completely healed. She mentioned that she was going to open a company for me in the meantime.

I was once again overwhelmed. I quickly told her that there was no need to do so, as I could just work under her; however, she refused.

Richard also told me that the fashion industry was strict about their work. If it was discovered that Michelle used my designs, her reputation would be ruined; therefore, opening a separate company for me was the only way.

What could I say? I let them do as they pleased; however, I told them that they could be in charge of the shares in that company. Michelle and Richard immediately refused, but I remained adamant.

Richard was my savior. How could I continuously take from him and his sister without giving them any profit? That was selfish.

A month passed by, and I was now fully healed. Michelle came to pick me up from Richard’s home. I bid farewell to him and his aunt, giving each of them the sweaters and stockings I had made for them.

“Protect her. You also know your fashion industry circle. If I hear any complaints, I will immediately come and pick her up,” Richard commanded.

I was touched by his words; my heart felt warm, and my whole body felt comfortable. I gently smiled at him as we left.

I worked well with Michelle. She taught me various things. Since I was good at sewing, stitching, and crocheting, I quickly got the hang of things.

I would sometimes return to visit Richard; sometimes he would pass by my work center to check my progress. I really liked being close to him; I guess it was the effect of him saving my life.

After six months, I launched my very first collection called ‘Swan.’ Michelle did the publishing and announcements. She was also in charge of looking for models for my work.

“Swan! You are really a miracle, just like your name! Do you know that your Swan collection has made a huge splash? The company made over 50 million on its first launch! As a new designer, this is simply unheard of!” Michelle said as she excitedly entered my office. I was surprised— all that money?

“Yes! Yes! You are hearing that right! Your collection is now popular among the youth and even older people! Many news articles are talking about the hidden miracle swan designer!” Michelle said.

I finally smiled; at least now I had somehow paid back the debt I owed Richard. Suddenly remembering Richard, I decided to tell him the good news.

“That’s good then; I didn’t disappoint you,” I said.

“Of course you didn’t! I trust my vision!” Michelle said as a phone call came in. Her secretary and mine also came in to inform us about sales, marketing, etc.

After Michelle and the secretaries left, I called Richard.

“Hello? Have you eaten lunch already?” I asked after the call connected.

“I was just going to eat. How about you?” Richard replied in a soft tone.

“I have already eaten,” I shyly replied. I didn’t know why, but Richard’s voice over the phone was always magnetic and enchanting.

“I have good news to tell you,” I said.

“Go ahead, I am always happy when you tell me anything about you,” Richard replied.

“The company made over 50 million on its first launch,” I said.

I heard Richard happily laugh; the sound magnetically vibrated through my ears, causing my heart to race a bit. I think I knew why I was shy now; I really had a crush on Richard! This wasn’t right; Richard was a good person and my savior. I simply was ungrateful to have such thoughts.

“You are really great, Swan! Let’s have a celebration tonight to celebrate your success,” Richard said.

I nodded in compliance but discovered that I was on the phone. “Okay, I will tell Michelle,” I softly said.

“Michelle is busy; let’s just have a small celebration at home. Fred will be around,” Richard said.

“Mm, have a nice day then,” I replied.

“Okay, you too, Swan. By the way, congratulations!” Richard said.

“Thank you,” I said with a smile as the call came to an end.

“Whom were you talking to just now? I could see your blush from a mile away. Be careful; there are shrewd men who take advantage of naive women just like you,” Monic said. Monic was a tailor on my team; she was exceptional at her work and didn’t believe in love, always warning women to stay far away from men.

I was startled by her; I hadn’t noticed her enter the office. “I bought some cloth pieces for you to take a look at,” Monic said as she presented the cloth pieces to me.

“Oh,” I replied as I went to observe them.

I informed Michelle about the celebration at home, but just like Richard said, she couldn’t make it. I therefore left without her.

When I reached home, my aunt was just leaving.
“Auntie, aren’t you staying to celebrate? It’s a small get-together,” I asked.

“Ms. Swan, congratulations! I heard about the news. I, however, also had a meeting with someone today; I simply couldn’t stay,” Aunty said.

I nodded in understanding as she hurriedly left.

“Swan! Congratulations!” I immediately heard Fred’s loud voice after entering the house.

“Thank you, Fred,” I said with a smile.

“Swan, you are simply incredible! Your very first collection amassed such a huge win,” Richard said as he came out of the kitchen holding a tray full of fruits.

It was now summer, and the weather was hot.
“Thank you,” I smiled as I said.

We ate fruits, I told them about my designs, showed them pictures, and my collection.

“I recently followed your page; everyone is yearning to see what you look like. Do you remember anything about your past?” Fred asked.

Richard paused his actions of eating fruit as he silently looked at me. “Not yet; I can’t seem to remember anything,” I replied.

“It seems it will be a long time before the memory loss ends,” Fred sighed as he said.

“Don’t worry; you have us. Maybe you don’t want to remember your past?” Richard commented.

Suddenly, a phone call came through. Fred quickly picked up. “Guys, I have to leave. Sorry, Swan, I can’t keep you company on your big day,” Fred said.

“No problem,” I said as Fred hurriedly left.

It was already dark outside. I guess I would have to spend the night and travel tomorrow; a lot of preparations still had to be made for the ‘Swan’ collection.

“Auntie made some lamb chops you love very much. Want to try?” Richard asked as he stood up.

“Okay,” I replied as we headed towards the kitchen.

I loved Auntie’s lamb chops; they were fragrant and nice to eat. I sat down on a nearby chair as I picked one up and ate it directly.

When I turned to face Richard, I found that he was watching me with an affectionate look. I immediately blushed; my hands couldn’t stay coordinated, leading to a nearby glass of juice pouring onto the table.

I immediately stood up to clean it up. Richard also walked in my direction with a box of napkins.

“Why are you so clumsy?” Richard said helplessly as he held my hand, turning me around to face him.

“Let me first help you with the stain on your face,” Richard said. I immediately stood still and let Richard hold my face. He then gently wiped away some lamb chop residue that had stained my cheek.

I simply couldn’t look into his eyes. Richard lifted my face by my chin; I involuntarily had to look at him. His gaze was so fierce that I thought I would be swallowed whole by him.

Richard then slowly and gently cleaned my upper lip. I had blushed to the extreme; it was impossible to blush anymore. My heart beat escalated, and I thought it would surely jump out of my chest.

I felt Richard slowly caress my lips with his finger, his heated gaze intently fixed on them. I felt my whole body go limp. Richard quickly held my waist, steadying me firmly in his embrace.

“Can I kiss you, swan?” Richard asked with a hoarse and almost painful tone.

“Mn,” I gently nodded, my voice surprised as it had gone to a very low octave that I had never used.

Richard impatiently kissed me, firmly locking me in his embrace. He softly bit my lower lip, causing my lips to part for him before he dived into my mouth, hungrily swallowing my tongue and exploring every inch of my mouth.

“I can’t help it, swan,” I heard Richard whisper close to my ear. I had already lost control of my body; every time Richard gently touched me, I became powerless to his actions.

I already knew that I had a crush on Richard. In this very moment, I lost the will to resist. I wanted this man to be mine and only mine; that’s what was on my mind.

I therefore proactively and gently kissed Richard, who was trying to stop his actions. This action seemed to have shredded any form of restraint that Richard had gathered, as he immediately carried me off the ground, put my legs around him, and walked upstairs in between kissing me feverishly.

My body reacted to Richard just like ghee reacts when put close to fire. Richard’s actions were gentle and considerate; his touch made my body surrender to him.

This was a night I couldn’t forget: how my body reacted, how Richard held me; his every action was imprinted in my mind.

My body reacted in a way I had never thought it would. On this night, I vowed that Richard would be the only man in the world to whom I wholeheartedly gave myself in this way; I vowed that he would be mine alone!

Chapter 36: Husband And Wife.

Sunlight creaked through the curtains as I squinted my eyes open. I was immediately met with Richard’s sleeping face, muscular chest, and disheveled hair. However, he was the most handsome man to me. I recalled last night’s events and blushed.

I stood up, took a shower, and stealthily went to the kitchen. I found my aunt already there; the entire kitchen was clean and organized.

“Good morning, Aunt,” I greeted.

“Good morning, swan,” Aunt replied as she turned towards me. She was slightly startled, then knowingly smiled as she continued cooking. I was confused by her expression; could she know what Richard and I did last night?

“I am sorry for the mess we left on the table yesterday,” I apologized.

“No problem. However, you may need to put on a sweater,” Aunt said.

“Why?” I asked in a confused manner.

“If you don’t want anyone to guess what went on last night, go look in a mirror,” Auntie said.

I quickly headed towards my own bedroom on the first floor and looked in the mirror. I immediately blushed in shame; my whole body was covered in different love marks! I helplessly put on my crocheted sweater and went back to the kitchen.

“Let me take breakfast to Richard,” I said to my aunt. She smiled knowingly, causing me to blush in embarrassment.

I quickly left with the breakfast. Richard had long woken up and washed up. He immediately walked towards me, removed the tray from my hands, placed it on the nearby table, and hugged me.

“Why did you disappear all of a sudden? I thought you had run away from me,” he said. I helplessly smiled as I hugged his bare back. Richard said such words with his stone face, but I could feel the fear in his voice.

“I will never disappear from you,” I said as I pressed my face to his chest.

“Okay, I bought you breakfast. Eat first,” I said.

“I won’t eat without you,” Richard said.

I could only helplessly look at him; him saying such words with such a serious face was so funny! I internally laughed at him.

Richard held my right hand and walked me to a nearby sofa while holding a tray in his left hand. We then sat down.

“Swan, I am serious about you. I don’t want to wait anymore. I feel like when you get your memories back, you might leave me. I can’t bear that,” Richard said.

“I won’t leave you. I feel it deep in my body and soul that you are the first man I have been with,” I replied.

“You are so good, Swan. I don’t know how you might take this, but I want you to be my wife. I don’t care about your past. Once you are my wife, I will be responsible for you. Even if you refuse, I will still be responsible,” Richard said.

I felt my eyes sting. I don’t know why, but Richard’s words seemed to trigger something in my soul. I felt the genuine love and passion in Richard’s words. I also wanted this man to only belong to me and only me.

“I accept, Richard. I want to properly become your wife,” I smiled as I said.

“Really? Don’t be quick to say that just because I saved you,” Richard said.

I smiled at his words. I knew what I was feeling now; this wasn’t about gratitude towards Richard. I loved and cherished this man; I would do anything for him.

“I know what I want. I accept,” I said. Richard immediately kissed me and hugged me tight.

“Alright, the breakfast is getting cold,” I said.

Richard insisted on personally feeding me; there was nothing I could do other than helplessly comply.

“I have to go back to the office. I have burdened Michelle a lot,” I suddenly said after we had had our breakfast and were cuddling on the sofa.

“Don’t go. Michelle is a veteran in the industry; she will handle such matters,” Richard said as he tightly held me. I could only helplessly smile.

“You also have to go back to work,” I commented.

“The employees will handle matters at hand; nothing is better than spending a day with my swan,” Richard said beside my ear as he peeked at me.

Suddenly, the door opened. I quickly tried to struggle out of Richard’s embrace, but he didn’t seem to get the signal! We could be seen by someone!

It was Fred. When he saw us, his face twisted into different emotions, and I simply looked down at my hands.

“You beast! Release her now! Don’t worry, swan, I will cut off relations with him if he has forced you! I can beat him up too!” Fred exclaimed.

I helplessly turned to Richard. I saw that he sneered at the fuming Fred, looking at him as though he were a chattering child.

“What’s that look? Do you think I can’t cut off relations?” Fred asked.

“I am thinking, can you really beat me up?” Richard asked.

I saw Fred slowly hesitate before he ran to the kitchen and came back with a mop. “With this, I can cause some harm!” Fred loudly declared.

I simply laughed at their bickering; these two were really an interesting combination. When Fred saw that I didn’t mind Richard’s cuddle, he weakly let go of the mop as he sat in the opposite seat.

“I am confused. When did this happen? Was it when I left yesterday?” Fred exclaimed.

“Swan and I are planning on getting married—just a small civil wedding, nothing grand. After all, Swan can’t be seen by the outside world until she regains her memories,” Richard said.

“Wait! Wait! This is going too fast. Didn’t you just establish a relationship? Why rush to get married all of a sudden?” Fred asked.

“We both have the same thoughts about tying the knot, so we are going to do so,” Richard added.

“Oh!” Fred weakly replied.

“What about our promise of being each other’s best man?” Fred slowly asked. I was touched by his words.

“You can still be; we will register the marriage at the civil office. You will still be my best man,” Richard elaborated.

“I am the only one single now,” Fred listlessly said as he headed to the kitchen.

“Aren’t you going to comfort your friend?” I turned to Richard and asked.

“He will be fine,” Richard said as he kissed my lips.

When Michelle got to know about our relationship, she furiously rebuked Richard, who confidently stood and received the attack. However, she settled down after I told her that it wasn’t only his decision but mine too.

Just as Richard had said, we had a very small civil wedding. Richard’s circle of friends consisted of brilliant young and old men and women from different business circles. They attended and congratulated us on our union.

We were finally husband and wife; no one could come between us, and I would make sure of that!

I continued with my life after the wedding. Different stores had opened, and the ‘Swan’ collection wear was immediately mass-produced and placed in them. They were selling well.

Chapter 37: I know who you are.

Five years quickly went by, and my brand was named ‘Miracle Swan (MS)’. It had spread far and wide and exceeded my expectations. However, this forced me to work hard; the latest collection would have to be better than the last.

I was honored to dress the First Lady of Dun Country, and this further opened my brand to a wider and more influential audience. The price of the clothes skyrocketed, but I wanted to reach everyone, and this wasn’t doing it for me.

Michelle, therefore, put forth an idea: there would be ranks within the ‘MS’ brand—the influential rank and the ordinary rank. This would satisfy both sides. I quickly agreed.

As I was in my office going through the spring break collection, Michelle stopped by.

“I will soon stop by again to see Archie and Tracy. As an aunt, I have to show responsibility!” Michelle said.

“No problem,” I smiled as I said. Archie and Tracy were twins, the children that came from Richard and my union. They had just turned 3 years old. Michelle always stopped by to buy them this and that; the children also liked their aunt. Richard would always have to struggle to get her to leave the house after coming to see the kids.

In the evening, I hurriedly left the office and headed home. We had planned with Richard to return early and choose an elementary school for the children.

When I reached home, I heard giggles and laughter inside. I smiled as I headed in.

“Archie, drop that toy! I told you not to buy such useless toys for the children!” I heard Richard sternly tell the detached Michelle.

“Richard,” I softly called.

“Honey, please explain to Michelle that the toys she buys for the kids don’t make sense!” Richard whined as he headed towards me, gently hugging me and resting his head on my shoulder.

I softly soothed him as I helplessly looked at Michelle. Archie and Tracy excitedly ran towards me. “Mom!” they shouted as they called, hurriedly running.

“Don’t run around; slow down!” I said.

Archie and Tracy reached us and tried separating Richard from me. “These little demons, I am your father! Swan is also mine!” Richard reprimanded, but Archie and Tracy didn’t seem to take his words seriously.

“Serves you right. Archie and Tracy love my toys. Why are you always trying to snatch them away from them?” Michelle said as Aunt brought in refreshments.

I quickly picked up Archie as Richard carried Tracy, who just wanted to be carried by me as she raised her hands in my direction.

“Behave. Do you want ice cream?” Richard told Tracy. When Tracy heard “ice cream,” her mood brightened up, and she forgot her former struggle.

“These children are always quiet and lovely during the day, but when their aunt stops by, they quickly chatter,” Aunt said with a gentle smile. There was a nanny to take care of the children, but Aunt still insisted on taking care of their every need; she treated them like her own children.

“What is she teaching them? Just making them mischievous,” Richard said.

Michelle snorted before picking up her fruit juice and slowly sipping it.

“Let’s go and choose a school for these two,” I said.

“Okay, my secretary has already drafted a few good schools in Dun. Let’s go check them out,” Richard replied as he placed Tracy in the high chair and set the refreshments before her. I also did the same with Archie.

We then headed upstairs. When we reached Richard’s room, he immediately kissed me as he gently pulled me to him.

“What can I do, swan? The more I stay with you, the more I want to tell the world that you are mine,” Richard said helplessly.

I kissed him back and softly encouraged him to do so. “Even if my memories return, nothing will change. If you want to tell the world, go ahead. This coming season, I will also finally reveal my face to the masses; I am tired of hiding,” I said.

“Really?” Richard asked.

“Really,” I replied.

Richard proceeded to kiss my eyelids, nose, and lips gently as he tightly hugged me. I knew that if we didn’t stop, things would go awry.

“The schools, Richard,” I reminded him as I gently tapped his back.

“They can wait,” Richard replied amidst kissing.

“Nope, we have to quickly find one today and register the kids,” I said, holding his head in place. I could see a whining expression on his stone face as he looked at me, and I gently chuckled.

“We are tied at the hip; we also have all the time in the world,” I reminded him. He slightly relaxed, and we headed towards the computer.

We chose a good school with good security for the kids and sent an application.

“Everything is done. I hope Archie and Tracy love the school,” I worriedly said.

“You worry so much. Children around the world go to school; nothing ever happens. Plus, Timmy will be driving them to and from school. The kids also love Timmy,” Richard said.

My heart finally went to rest. I wasn’t worried about the security; it’s just that I have never separated from them since birth. When I thought about separation, I felt deep pain in my chest as though I would forever not see them. I just don’t know where that feeling came from.

We finalized the twins’ school application and registration. We received the children’s uniforms and bought everything that they needed for school. Richard or I would pick them up from school if we had time, but if not, then Timmy would do so.

I was preparing for my upcoming collection. I had decided to reveal myself to the public. I didn’t care what my memories were; I had already considered them as my past.

My back, stomach, left side of my eye, and some areas on my arms had scars that refused to go away. This inspired my next collection, “Scars.” I quickly worked on my collection for about two months.

I posted on my social media page that I would be releasing a new collection called “Scars.” There were various excited voices screaming for me to show my work and face.

I commented and told them that with this collection, I would finally reveal my face to the masses. Over 5 million commenters liked my comment, and others shared it to various platforms. Different bloggers were guessing if I was a man or a woman, etc. It became a huge conversation in different circles.

Today, I was free, so I went to pick up the twins. I had now assimilated with the Dun way of life. I was wearing black jeans, a white vest, a brown leather jacket, the “Ms” bag that I had in my previous collection, and some simple stilettos.

When I arrived at the twins’ school, a woman walked towards me. All her clothes screamed luxury; I guessed she was one of the parents.

Most people who took their children to this school had money—not in a bad way, but the school was beyond expensive for any ordinary family.

“Hello, I am a parent here. Are you also a parent?” the woman asked.

“Yes,” I replied as I turned towards her.

“Well, I had placed an order for the ‘Ms’ bag, but I was told that they had made only five of them. I was greatly disappointed. I wonder how you were able to get one?” the woman asked.

I was suddenly startled. I had made only five bags just for the trial stage; I didn’t think I had experience when it came to bags. I guess people still loved them?

“Well, I know someone there; that’s how,” I politely replied.

“No wonder,” the woman said before she walked ahead towards a chubby crying boy.

I also saw the twins laughing happily with some other kids. It seems this school was a great choice.

I led them to the car, not before thanking their teacher for the help rendered. I knew what a headache these children were at this age.

“Did you love school?” I asked Archie and Tracy as I buckled their seat belts.

“Yes! Mom! I met Stancy! She loves ice cream!” Tracy said.

“Slow down on the ice cream; it will cause tooth decay,” I warned.

I patted their heads as I sat beside them. Timmy then drove us home in between Tracy and Archie’s bickering.

Suddenly, I received a text message. Quickly, I picked up my phone and read it; my heart slowly jumped. “I know who you are, Shiba,” the text read.

Chapter 38: Cleaning the Necklace.

When Richard came home from work, the children had already gone to sleep. He gently checked on them. We had dinner and went to bed. I had already taken a bath, so I changed into my nightgown and sat down on the bed. I couldn’t help but think back to that message.

Richard finished having a bath, changed into his sleepwear, and sat down beside me on the bed. “Honey, what’s the matter?” Richard asked as he hugged my shoulders to him.

“I can’t help but notice your worried look. I don’t like it. Who has annoyed you? I will quickly work on them,” Richard sternly added.

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Nothing much. Look, I received this message today,” I said as I passed him my phone.

“This person says he knows you? Shiba? I will quickly make some calls. Let’s track this number and find out about this name. No need to stress yourself; you are now famous. This might be a stalker,” Richard comforted as he held my fingers tenderly with his left arm while quickly dialing someone’s number.

“Find out everything about this number I am going to send you. Also a name, Shiba,” Richard said to the person on the other line. I couldn’t hear what the other person said, though.

“I don’t have a second name; just find out anything about that name,” Richard added before he disconnected the call.

“Don’t worry, take a few days off. I know you want to launch your collection, but it can wait; your safety is paramount,” Richard said as he gently pulled me to his side, hugging me to him.

“I haven’t been honest with you, Swan,” Richard suddenly said. I slightly looked at him.

“About my family, I personally sent my father to jail; he hurt my mother,” Richard said. I suddenly sat up straight and looked at him.

Richard looked stern and strict due to his rigid face, but he had emotions, just like anyone else. I had vowed to be with him and bear all his burdens. I held his hands in worry and comfort.

“It’s fine. It’s been years now. I have never gone to visit him there. My mother went mad because of him and jumped out of the window of our house in Huner; that’s where she met her end. I normally return to Huner for her death anniversary. Last time,” Richard explained.

“When I went to Huner last time, it was because of a business meeting and also her death anniversary,” Richard said.

I tightly held his hand as I listened to him. “When I laid my eyes on you, saw your wounds and state, my heart immediately told me to save you no matter what. I don’t regret doing so. You have brought so much happiness and joy into my life. I feel that I am finally complete,” Richard said as he held my hands too.

“I also developed a psychological shadow after seeing my mom’s body laid out on the ground in a pool of blood. I always dreamt about it for several days. I was worried that after knowing this truth, you would avoid me. I am sorry; I was selfish,” Richard said.

I quietly held his face and turned his head towards me. “I can never run away from you; you are my joy too. I love you, Richard. You are so strong to have withstood such a scene in your childhood up to now. It’s very difficult for a normal person to do so,” I gently said as I kissed him.

“Thank you, swan, for trusting me, loving me, and allowing me to be by your side. I will not let anything happen to you, no matter what,” Richard said before he hugged me. We silently cuddled and slowly went to sleep.

The next day, Richard told me to stay at home until the results of the investigation were revealed. I followed his request and stayed at home.

In the evening, Richard returned home, but I could sense that he had drunk some alcohol; his mood was also visibly low.

“Honey, what’s the matter?” I suddenly asked as I walked towards him.

Richard immediately hugged me. “My swan, how could anyone do that to you? I will definitely kill them!” I heard Richard speak in anger and pain.

“Okay, no killing people. Come with me, take a bath, and cool down,” I gently said as I led him to the master bedroom. Although Archie and Tracy were asleep, one couldn’t be so sure with them; I didn’t want them to see a drunk Richard.

I helped Richard undress as he incoherently complained and rebuked. I then led him into the bathroom and switched on the shower head. I had no option but to get myself wet; Richard was a tall giant of a man, and it was a hassle helping him take a shower.

After the struggle, Richard finally complied and brushed his teeth. I hurriedly washed and followed him out.

We changed into our nightgowns and headed to bed. That night, Richard had a nightmare. I woke up and quickly hugged him in comfort before he went back to sleep. It really seemed like something did indeed happen, I thought.

Morning quickly arrived; birds sang, and Archie and Tracy’s voices rang around the house as the nanny dressed them for school.

I looked to my side and found that Richard had already woken up.

Suddenly, I heard the bathroom door open, and Richard came out with a towel around his waist. He has always been a good-looking man; why did his sexiness increase today?

Richard then came towards me and kissed me. “I haven’t brushed my teeth,” I said.

“I don’t care; I love you no matter what,” Richard said before he went to change his clothes. I slightly blushed at his words and rushed to take a bath.

When I came out, Richard was struggling with his tie, so I hurriedly went to help him with it.

“What happened yesterday? You came home drunk. What if the children saw you?” I reprimanded.

“It won’t happen again; I promise. Don’t get mad at me; I am scared of you getting angry,” Richard said as he hugged my waist.

“Now you know how to be scared. Release my waist; you will get wet,” I said.

Richard shook his head in refusal. “Give me a kiss; I will let go,” he said.

I helplessly looked at him with a gentle smile before I proceeded to kiss him.

We then headed down the stairs after we had changed. The kids were already dressed and fed, and they were ready to go to school.

“Mom! Dad!” they simultaneously called. I guess it was a twin thing; they always seemed to talk at the same time with the same exact words.

I softly patted their heads and kissed each one of them respectively before escorting them to the car.

“Timmy, have a safe journey. Take these troublemakers away,” I said.

“No problem, Mrs. Swan,” Timmy brightly smiled as he replied.

When I wanted to turn back and leave, I found that my left leg couldn’t move. I slowly looked down and found Archie tightly holding it. I scooted down and looked at him.

“Archie, what’s wrong? You said you loved school before,” I said.

“Come to school with me,” Archie childishly said.

“You are now a grown man. Which grown men do you see carrying their mothers around everywhere they go? Do you want to be laughed at?” Richard sternly said.

Archie hesitantly let go of my leg. “It will only be a few hours at school; you will find me at home. I will cook you lamb chops,” I gently coaxed. Archie finally let go, and Timmy led them to the car before they left.

“Come, drink some hungover soup,” I said as I led Richard back into the house.

Richard finished having his breakfast and stood up. He was always on time for work. He hadn’t told me how the investigation went; I guess I still had to stay at home for a few more days, I thought.

“Oh! I almost forgot. I noticed that your necklace had been worn for so long. I have a friend who does some jewelry cleaning; he will be coming to town. Let me take it to him to clean,” Richard suddenly turned around as he said.

I nodded in understanding as I tried to remove it. Richard immediately approached me and removed it for me. He kissed me and then went to work.

Chapter 39: Let’s Talk.

Three days went by, and Michelle called me to inquire about the ‘scars’ collection. She told me that everything had been arranged and that I would travel to over 20 countries for promotions. I gave her a vague answer and told her to be a little patient; I would ask Richard about the investigation tonight.

That night, Richard returned and gave me back the necklace. It had indeed been polished and cleaned.

“Your friend is really something; the necklace looks brand new now,” I commented in appreciation.

“I can buy you all the necklaces you want,” Richard said.

“I know; there is an entire jewelry closet in the house,” I gently smiled as I said.

“Do you wish to travel anywhere? I don’t know, maybe have some fresh air, good time. We could take a vacation if you want,” Richard said.

I intently looked at him. “Where is this coming from? Oh! Right, Michelle called me. We can’t push the ‘scars’ collection anymore; people will be fed up. Good thing I didn’t mention the date when I posted online. How did the investigation go?” I asked.

“Oh, well, the investigation went well; nothing to be worried about. We talked to the guy responsible for the message; he didn’t mean any harm; it was just a harmless text,” Richard said in a rigid tone. I could immediately tell that he was lying, but I let it be. I trusted Richard; he would tell me when he was ready.

“Okay, I will have to start making travel plans then,” I said as I put on the necklace. I felt Richard tightly hug me around the waist.

“Remember when I said I wanted to announce our relationship? How about I escort you to those countries? We could openly become official,” Richard suggested.

“Won’t you work on all those days?” I asked, speechlessly.

“I have my laptop; I can work from anywhere. Also, there is my secretary; she can handle anything else,” Richard said as he lay his head on my shoulder. I helplessly smiled as I stroked his hair.

“Okay, you can come,” I said.

Richard kissed me and proceeded to gently sit me on his lap. “What if you regain your memory and find that you have a whole other family? Will you leave me?” Richard worriedly asked as he held me tight.

“Remember when I told you that even with my memories back, nothing would change? I meant that. I love you so much, Richard; I don’t know how to show you,” I said as I gently held his face.

Richard then slowly slid his hand from my shoulder to my hip, before continuing to my inner thigh. My body responded to his touch just like it usually did; I became soft and helpless. “Show me today, swan; show me how much you love me,” Richard pleadingly requested.

I gathered my remaining energy and shakily undid his belt. When the belt clicked open, Richard immediately placed me under him and proceeded to treat every part of my body like a treasure. He held me as though afraid I would break any minute; all his movements sent me to heaven.

Richard knew every part of my body; he simply knew how to please me, when to stop, and what was right, and I indulged him with everything he wanted.

When our lovemaking came to an end, I had already withered and softened in Richard’s arms. “Swan, I will not allow anyone to take you away from me,” Richard said as he kissed the top of my head.

“I won’t allow it too,” I said as I hugged him tight.

The launch quickly came by. We first held an opening ceremony in Dun, of course. The place was crowded to the maximum, but security was tight.

“You look fantastic, Swan!” Michelle said.

“Thank you,” I replied. I had put on one of the ‘scars’ collection. My back, arms, legs, part of my thighs, and shoulders were clearly visible.

This looks exaggerated; the scars that I had on my body were even more pronounced.

“Alright, everybody, let’s welcome the founder of Miracle Swan and the ‘Scars’ collection! Miracle Swan!” the announcer said. Michelle quickly urged me to go with a smile. I immediately went on stage amidst shouts and screams.

When I arrived, the screams reached an all-time high. I was surprised and full of gratitude for their support. Cameras rapidly flashed. I directly headed towards the female and male interviewers and sat down.

“Wow!” the interviewers exclaimed.

“I simply can’t believe my eyes! I saw on your profile that you are a mother of two? It doesn’t look that way. How can you be so young?” a male interviewer asked.

I gently smiled; this caused the audience to scream even more. The surprise on my face couldn’t be hidden from their actions.

“People are simply excited, just like me,” the female interviewer said.

“Mrs. Swan, is what you are wearing part of the ‘Scars’ collection? What inspired your work?” the male interviewer asked.

“Well, I have scars all over my body. I lost my memories, so I simply can’t remember how I got them. However, when I study these scars, I find that they are not shameful. To me, they aren’t even a reminder, as I can’t remember how they came about. These scars are now my skin; they are a part of me. When I see them, I see resilience. I somehow imagine that although pain and harm were inflicted on me, I emerged victorious. I won, and I am now standing on a big stage,” I said.

There was silence among the audience as the cameras zoomed in on my scars.

“Wow, I didn’t know that this collection had such a touching background,” the male interviewer said.

“I saw those scars, but I thought it was make-up, so they are really real scars!” the female interviewer exclaimed as she stood up to observe and touch my arm. I simply let her.

“They are indeed scars! What kind of torture did you endure?” the female interviewer shouted.

“Swan said she can’t remember,” the male interviewer sighed as he spoke.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please support Miracle Swan! Let’s do it for every survivor out there! They were resilient and finally overcame, no matter what they went through; they are still standing!” the male interviewer shouted. Screams and shouts once again echoed.

“Mrs. Swan, what would you like to tell fashion lovers?” the interviewer asked.

“Simply push on; your past shouldn’t influence your future; only look ahead!” I said.

“Also, I would like to introduce my husband,” I added.

“Oh! I am suddenly excited! Who could this Mr. Lucky be?” the female interviewer said.

On stage, a tall and confident Richard walked towards me; thunderous screams couldn’t be contained this time around.

“I am shaking. Is this Dun’s business giant before me? Am I seeing things?” the male interviewer rhetorically asked.

“Me too!” the female interviewer replied.

I stood up, and Richard hugged and kissed me before helping me sit back down as he sat beside me, too.

“Hello,” Richard greeted the interviewers.

“Mr. Stone, how did you two meet?” the male interviewer asked.

“Well, it was a miracle, just like my wife’s name. She was swept up by the water currents; luckily, I discovered her, or she wouldn’t be among us today,” Richard said.

“Well, congratulations!” the female interviewer said with a bright smile.

“Thank you,” Richard replied. We proceeded to answer a few questions before the interview was wrapped up. I had to sign some autographs along the way, so it took some time to reunite with Richard in the waiting room.

When I walked in, Richard and Michelle seemed to be having an argument. When I entered, they suddenly stopped and turned to face me.

“Swan, let’s talk. I can’t hide things from you anymore,” Richard said as he stood up, held my hand, and led me to sit beside him.Michelle quickly stood up and locked the door.

Chapter 40: Whoever Kills By The Sword Shall Die By It.

Richard and Michelle seemed anxious as they looked at me.
“Just talk, what are you worried about?” I asked.

“Your real name is Shiba Fuli. You are originally from Muni Country. I took your necklace last time because I met up with the guy who sent you a message. He told me that he personally gave it to you back in Muni,” Richard said.

“Okay, was the necklace the one he gave me?” I asked.

“It’s more than a necklace; there was data stored inside—very incriminating data about some people,” Richard said. My heart jumped.

“Is it that serious?” I asked.

“Yes, very serious. To add, you also have a husband and two children,” Richard added.

I simply couldn’t accept such facts!
“Yes, I have two children, Archie and Tracy, plus a husband—you, Richard,” I said.

Richard helplessly smiled as he held my hand. “Yes, I am your husband, but what I said is also true: you have another family. However, your husband was also your abuser. The man I met told me so. The evidence in the necklace somehow ties him, but it can’t incriminate him,” Richard said.

“Can I see the footage?” I asked.

“It’s better not to see it; I sent it to trusted authorities,” Richard replied. I nodded in understanding.

“Is that why you were worried? I can’t leave you, Richard; you are my only husband,” I said as I held him. I hoped that Richard wouldn’t let me go just because of this information.

“Of course I understand, Swan. However, you also have a mother, father, and 13 siblings. Don’t you want to see them?” Richard added.

I was suddenly at a loss; I simply didn’t remember all those people. However, if my family was out there, I guess they would love to know that I was safe.

“Let’s take it slow; we shall just continue with the tour and then stop by Muni. It’s also one of our destinations; let’s make it our last,” Michelle suddenly said.

“Okay,” Richard replied.

“Swan, I love you; nothing will change that. You are my wife. Your abuser will also have to face the law!” Richard said as he hugged my waist.

“Would you like to see your children? They are 15 years old and also twins; they are popular online,” Michelle said.

I slowly turned to face Richard, who smiled at me in encouragement. I took Michelle’s tablet as I viewed the different accounts.

One was of a boy called Klain Charpil; he was just fifteen years old. The places he frequented were high-class and expensive. Some pictures were taken in expensive cars and yachts. He also had some other pictures with a girl that slightly resembled him. I then saw the post indicating that she was his sister.

Another account was of a girl, Massey Charpil. She seemed to love crocheted pieces, as seen from her pictures; she was also a fan of all the swan collections! I was slightly surprised. In her profile, she had posted two candles and the word “mother” under them. All their accounts had millions of followers and comments.

I returned the tablet to Michelle helplessly.
“I don’t remember them,” I softly said.

“It’s okay, take your time; I am with you,” Richard said.

With Richard and Michelle behind me, I became strong. The tours went well. We were finally headed for Muni Country the following day. I was nervous and anxious at the same time.

“It’s alright; I am with you. I also have some good news,” Richard said as he hugged me to him in bed.

I pensively looked at him. “There was a man who was also traced in one of the videos. He was called Zire; he was responsible for the end of your friend named Tanti. I guess his competitors got a hold of the video of that act and used it against him. He was finally sent to jail; however, he tried escaping and was therefore shot dead by the guards. I guess whoever kills by the sword shall die by the sword; he murdered, and he was also murdered,” Richard elaborated.

Although I couldn’t remember that friend, I was satisfied with her offender’s ending.

“Well, for the case of Henry, your supposed husband, his family has deep roots in Muni, but don’t worry; it won’t be difficult for me to uproot them,” Richard said.

I suddenly kissed him. “You have worked hard for me, Richard. I can’t repay it in this life,” I said.

“There is nothing to repay. I told you that I would be responsible for you,” Richard said.

I slowly slept in his embrace as I smiled; I was simply so lucky to have met Richard.

The next day, we talked to the children via video call. Archie and Tracy seemed agitated as they couldn’t physically reach us. We blew them kisses and disconnected the video.

We boarded the plane and headed towards Muni. The tour was already arranged, and everything was in place.

There were two interviewers, a male and a female. Richard encouraged me to go, so I headed on stage.

“Mrs. Swan, I finally get to interview you!” the male host said.

“The whole of Muni was anticipating your return home. We heard you forgot your memories, but we got you. You are originally from here; your husband is Henry Charpil. You attempted to commit suicide because he was going to marry a second wife, Lilly,” the female interviewer disdainfully said.

“From where do you get those facts?” Richard asked as he directly headed on stage.

The female interviewer looked in his direction and immediately blushed. “It was all over the news; don’t be deceived by her face!” the female interviewer added.

“Oh, really? Please play the videos,” Richard said as he sat beside me.

“What videos? Everyone has them on their phone with just a simple search. That woman was shrewd for Henry’s money; she then turned around to accuse him of being an abuser and murderer! Who doesn’t know that in Muni?” the female interviewer retorted. I could hear murmurs in the crowd. Did I really do such a thing? I was suddenly ashamed.

“I am not talking to you,” Richard said as he turned toward the interviewer in annoyance.

Suddenly, there was some noise behind us indicating that a video was playing. Immediately, Richard covered my ears and hugged my head to his chest.

In the audience, I saw two children that I had seen online; they were my supposed children. The boy looked in my direction with resentment, and the girl just gave me a blank look.

After some time, the boy’s face twisted in disbelief, anger, betrayal, and all sorts of expressions as he looked behind us. The girl was now also wide-eyed and speechless; I then saw tears running down her cheeks. The boy suddenly ran away, and the girl followed.

Richard then let my ears go; it seemed the video had ended.
“What were you saying, Madam Interviewer?” Richard asked.

I saw the female interviewer bury her face in shame.
“I am sorry, Mr. and Mrs. Stone,” the female interviewer said before she ran off the stage.

“Mrs. Swan, please forgive my colleague. Welcome back to Muni. It was an honor to have you here,” the male interviewer said. I wanted to reply, but Richard immediately led me off stage.

“Shiba?” Suddenly, a voice called. I turned back and saw a beautiful woman with tears in her eyes. Behind her, there was a very tall and handsome man who also bore a look of grief and heartache as a very delicate-looking woman held his hand in comfort.

I simply didn’t know who these people were. The woman immediately ran towards me and tightly hugged me in between tears. “I knew you were alive somewhere. I couldn’t believe your death. Look at you, so bright! So beautiful!” the woman cried.

I awkwardly let her hug me; Richard didn’t stop her actions either, so I believed that she meant no harm.

“I heard that you forgot your memories. I am your sister, Sima! He is Ady, your elder brother; that is his wife, Molly. I told you about the lady from outside town; it’s her. They got married and have a son now,” Sima laughed in between tears as she spoke. I looked at them, but nothing came to mind.

“It’s good you don’t remember; it’s better that way,” the tall man who was my supposed brother presented a phone to me, and the text read:

“Ady has hearing problems; we can gossip about him without worry.” Sima slowly laughed as she wiped her tears.

“Mom!” I suddenly heard loud voices of a boy and a girl calling. Turning around, I saw that it was Klain and Massey.

“Let’s all go somewhere to talk,” Richard finally said. We all then headed toward the exit of the building.

Chapter 41: Mask Off.

Richard drove us to a villa.
“I knew that sooner or later, you would have a meeting. If you need to meet Swan, you can come here,” Richard said to the people present as he hugged me.

“Mom, are you now married somewhere else?” Klain suddenly asked.

“Yes,” I quietly replied.

“That’s good then,” I heard Massey say. I looked at her in surprise.

“I saw the video. I also remembered some things while growing up. I am not like Klain, who blindly trusts others,” Massey said, leading Klain to glare at her.

“What!” Massey shouted.

“Alright everyone, let’s sit down first, have a simple talk, and everything will be fine. Swan can’t remember any of you, so whatever you are saying isn’t helping,” Richard said as he led me to a sofa.

Others followed and sat around us.
“You can all go ahead and talk,” Richard said as he left to go upstairs.

“Is that man treating you well?” Ady wrote in a notebook that his wife, Molly, passed him.

“Yes, he is good,” I replied.

Ady sighed in relief. “On your burial, Ady released the videos of Zire’s acts and Henry’s involvement in the murder, but they were quickly ruled as fake. He was then arrested by the chief of police. If it wasn’t for Molly, he would have probably stayed,” Sima explained. I looked towards Molly in appreciation.

“He is my man. How can I let anything happen to him? I dare anyone to try!” Molly delicately said. Although her words were soft, you could hear the determination in them.

Ady helplessly held her hand after seeing her furious expression. “Aunt Sima, is Dad really that bad of a person?” Klain asked.

Sima was suddenly silent. “What do you think? After seeing that video, you still have the guts to ask!” Massey screamed at Klain, who immediately shut his mouth.

Suddenly, noise was heard coming from the front of the house. I saw Richard come from the room and directly head outside.

“Let me in! My children and wife are inside. Who are you?” I suddenly heard a voice say.

“Dad!” Klain called as he attempted to stand up before calmly sitting down again after seeing Massey’s glare.

I then saw a fairly handsome man enter; he smiled as he looked at me. However, my body immediately shuddered at his smile. I really didn’t like how he smiled.

“Shiba! Thank God you are okay. You simply don’t know how I missed you,” Henry said as he attempted to walk in my direction.

Richard immediately stopped him as he put a hand on his chest. “You can talk over here; no need to go close to her, Henry,” he sternly said. I got to know that this man was called Henry, my supposed husband and also abuser. No wonder I didn’t like his smile!

“Who the hell are you?” Henry asked.

“Richard Stone, Swan’s husband,” Richard replied as he walked towards me and held my waist. I immediately became comfortable.

“Oh! You are the supposed husband. Listen, she isn’t called Swan; she is Shiba Ada, my legally wedded wife. Your marriage is null and void. I get that you saved her and all; the story is touching, but you can’t come between us. Look at her children,” Henry said as he pointed towards Massey and Klain.

I saw Richard’s jaw tighten and knew he was really angry; however, I didn’t know what to say.

Ady immediately wanted to rush towards Henry after his words, but Sima stopped him.

“Hm? Brother-in-law? Why the scary face? You personally attended our wedding and bore witness to our reunion. Oh! I forgot! You can’t hear,” Henry chuckled as he slowly spoke. I could sense the negative energy from afar.

“Alright, enough with all this. Shiba, Klain, and Massey, let’s go home and talk everything through just like a family,” Henry said.

“I am not leaving,” I sternly said. Henry slowly looked at me with a smile.

“She isn’t leaving,” Richard repeated.

As the conversation was going on, the door was once again pushed open.

“Henry Charpil, I am Chief Superintendent Michael Stems, now in charge of Muni Police. Please follow us to the station. We need your help in our investigations,” the police said.

“Henry Charpil? I am Mrs. Swan’s lawyer. Please receive these court summons and also sign these divorce papers,” another man said.

I was startled; I had never hired a lawyer. I finally knew that it was Richard’s doing, so I lightly smiled at him as I tightly held his hand.

“Hahahaha, what is this bullshit I am hearing? Where is the real Chief of Police?” Henry asked.

“You mean Chief Louis? Well, he is kind of stuck. You see, it was discovered that he took bribes, blackmailed civilians, didn’t fulfill his supposed duties, etc., so he has to answer for all that,” Chief Michael said.

“Dad!” Klain shouted as tears threatened to leave his eyes.

“Mom, please don’t let Dad be taken by them. Do something. Okay, I know he hurt you, but he is Dad. Please forgive him,” Klain cried. Immediately, Massey landed a slap on his face. Klain was shocked and surprised.

“You slapped me!” Klain shouted.

“Forgive me too, since you like forgiveness so much,” Massey said.

I was slightly startled by Massey’s actions. Sima chuckled at her actions, which made Klain angry.

“I have no reason to go to the police. I didn’t do anything wrong, and about the divorce papers, I simply won’t sign. Shiba is my legally wedded wife; no one can separate us,” Henry said.

“Then we will have to escort you there,” Chief Michael said as he ordered two policemen to head towards Henry’s direction.

Henry abruptly rushed towards me. Richard was caught by surprise, and he was too late to react, leading Henry to hold my left hand.

“Come with me. You once asked me if I have ever loved. I thought about it after you passed. Yes, I loved. I found that I really loved you, Shiba,” Henry said.

“Let go!” Richard angrily said as he held my right hand.

“This is a family matter. Why do you like snooping around? I hate snooping dogs the most!” Henry replied.

Suddenly, I felt dizzy; my head seemed to almost explode. The words ‘snooping around’ seemed to trigger a very hidden memory deep in my brain.

“Shiba!” I heard different voices shout before I fainted.

When I woke up, Richard was sitting beside my bed. I silently looked at him. I had finally remembered everything; I finally recovered the memories I didn’t want to.

“Remembered?” Richard asked. I gently shook my head. Richard pensively looked at me.

I tenderly held his face. “Nothing changes; you are my love and husband; you will always be,” I said. Richard seemed to relax as he let me hold his face.

The doctor concluded that there was nothing worrying about my condition, so we left.
“Where are Klain and the rest?” I asked.

“I told them to go back home; they will stop by later when you are refreshed and fine,” Richard said.

“What about Henry?” I asked worriedly. Henry wasn’t a simple person; he had almost the whole Muni in his hands.

“Don’t worry, different cases have been opened against him; the divorce is also in process,” Richard said.

We therefore went home, took a bath, video-called Archie and Tracy, and went to sleep. However, I had a nightmare of Henry beating me up and forcing me to jump off a bridge. I woke up at Richard’s urging as he tightly hugged me.

“You are okay; it’s me,” Richard softly said as he hugged me.

We had to stay in Muni country for some time since the court case was in motion. I took Richard to Mother and Father. Swanti had long grown up; she was still a foodie, though.

My father had long resigned from his government job after my “death.” Words were being directed at him for his whole family being shrewd for money.

My father apologized to me for all the pain I suffered at Henry’s hands. My mother cried endlessly at my misery. I told them not to worry, as I had Richard by my side.

The ‘scars’ collection was massively sold, and the company made numerous profits. The Charpil’s businesses, however, were doing the opposite; different material about their brutal treatment of workers and competitors emerged. This led to a massive boycott movement and cases being opened against the enterprise.

People online were also following the court rulings. The court ruled that Henry was to pay 50 million in damages for the visible injuries inflicted on me, as there was apparently video evidence of his actions. I, however, never got to see it, but I somewhat guessed what it entailed. It added that the filing of the assault case was barred by time, so no further actions would be taken.

As for the murder cases, the court found that it wasn’t clear who the man in the video was talking to, and they couldn’t convict Henry based on assumptions. However, an arrest warrant had been issued for the man in the video.

A large mass of people in Muni and outside were very dissatisfied with the court’s ruling, as the evidence was in front of them, but nothing was done.

I didn’t understand the law, so I had no comments. I was, however, very happy that Henry’s perfect mask was snatched off; from then forth, everyone would know him for who he was! I wouldn’t touch Henry’s money, though; I planned to open a women’s victim home with it. Every helpless woman in Muni and the neighboring areas would go there to receive the help they needed.

Henry eventually signed the divorce papers. The media was present at the divorce settlement, and everything was recorded. Henry publicly asked for forgiveness and kneeled before the media, but I had long seen what this man was capable of. Who knows if his plea was genuine?

Charpil’s power in Muni rapidly declined; their competitors used the time when they were battling cases and boycotts to completely hammer them down. Henry sold most of the cars, yachts, and different houses to revive some business, but nothing worked. I guess karma had come to bite.

I eventually left Muni for Dun. Although this was my hometown, I didn’t have many good memories in it. Massey came with me, but Klain stayed in Muni. He apologized to me but said that we were both his parents; he would always come to visit me, but he couldn’t leave his father in the dire situation he was in. I just allowed him to do as he pleased; I was, however, worried sick about his well-being.

I knew that this was all due to Richard’s help. It wasn’t easy to handle the Charpil family. Uprooting them from Muni, a country they had covered with their hands and feet, must not have been a simple task.

Chapter 42: Lucky Star.

Years slowly went by. Archie and Tracy were now teenagers, and Massey had joined Michelle and taken a fashion route. Klain would also normally come to visit; Archie liked him and always looked forward to his visits.

I would return to Muni occasionally to check up on my mother, father, and siblings. Ady had three more children with his wife, Molly; the two always seemed in love every time I met them. My family had also started some small businesses in town, which became prosperous.

On this day, I had finished reading through the fashion design proposals when a call came in. I was told that Klain was badly injured and hospitalized. I immediately informed Richard, and together we went to visit him in Muni Main Hospital.

“What happened?” I asked as I sat beside him.

“I am sorry, Mom. I couldn’t understand you. I wanted to study Dad, to know who he really is, but I simply couldn’t. Today, I discovered that I don’t know him at all,” Klain said.He refused to explain even after I urged him to. I just stopped asking.

The Charpil family had now been completely annihilated; it was a family in the talks of the past.Lilly had also gone back abroad, according to rumors. Massey had once told me that it was discovered she wasn’t capable of having children in this life. I had been shocked after this discovery.

Lilly loved Massey and Klain. She had once hinted that she wanted children of her own. I suddenly felt pity for her. How could she have felt in that moment?

When the drip was over, I planned to take Klain to the house that Richard had bought in Muni. Klain had formally completely refused our help, but surprisingly, he now complied and silently followed us.

We exited the hospital entrance, and a drunk man staggered toward us. “Oh! Shiba! My beautiful wife! Klain, come home! Where is that girl Massey?” Surprisingly, I saw that it was Henry. This unkempt, tall, and thin man was really Henry!

I remembered the proud Henry, the one who could step on people as though they were just ants, the one who held authority and power, then looked back at the current Henry. Karma was really real, I thought. Richard immediately hugged me and led me in the opposite direction.

“Where are you going? That’s my wife! Hahaha, my wife! After everything disappeared from me, you all quickly ran away like the hypocrites you are!” Henry rebuked.

“Dad, you hurt Mom; that’s why she left. Lilly, whom you loved so much, left. Still, not everyone left. I was by your side,” Klain painfully said.

“You shut up right now, you ungrateful bastard!” Henry said as he picked up a bottle from his jacket and attempted to smash it on Klain’s head. I was suddenly alarmed and frightened as I attempted to run towards him; however, Richard was faster than me. He immediately stopped Henry’s actions.

“What kind of father are you? This is your child!” Richard reprimanded.

“You can take him for all I care, just like you took the other one!” Henry said before staggering off.

“Dad,” Klain choked out. Richard immediately hugged him.

“It’s not your fault; it’s his. You weren’t a bad son,” Richard said as he then led Klain to the car.

I visited home, my brother and sister, Tanti’s mother, and her grave. Then we once again left Muni for Dun. Klain went to medical school; he was so brilliant and intelligent.

I sat outside the villa as I thought things through. I wondered what happened to Sophie; I didn’t really get to know the answer to that.

I then thought about Klain. He was perfect at what he did, but he never came close to having any relationship outside of medicine. I could sense that he avoided relationships at all costs.

When Massey and Klain came over to the house, Massey would talk about her boyfriend, whom she would soon introduce. She had even been in failed relationships, but she still had hope in love.

As for Klain, he would only bury his face in his plate as he silently ate his food. I had noticed every detail of his behavior. It brought a pang of pain to my heart; I didn’t know if I was the cause of his behavior or if it was Henry.

I blamed myself for ever meeting Henry, but I loved my children a lot. Nothing would ever change that.

“What is my lovely wife thinking about?” Richard gently asked as he hugged me from behind. I smiled gently as I held his folded hands tenderly.

“Can you connect the doctor who was treating my nightmares to Klain?” I asked.

“No. That’s not the right doctor for him. I have also seen his character slowly change. I will ask Fred for some help,” Richard commented. I nodded my head in understanding. Richard was really a lucky star I accidentally met; if only we had met earlier.

“I think meeting you was simply meant to be. I also think that Klain and I have some slight similarities. Don’t worry about him; he will be fine. I am fine, so one day, he will too,” Richard said. He then sat beside me, and we quietly watched the birds in the distance.

“Richard, honey, I am so grateful for everything you did for me. I don’t know what I would have done without you,” I calmly said.

“You are my wife; everything I have belongs to you. I said I will be responsible for you. Also, it wasn’t only my doing,” Richard said as he held my hand.

I turned inquiringly towards him. “Remember the video of that dead man who was sunk in acid?” Richard asked. I slowly shook my head in confusion.

“Well, that man was an uncle of someone big in the underground scene. At the time, the relatives were scared of Charpil’s power and could do nothing, but now everything is different. After the Charpil family lost its footing, that family made sure that they could never stand again. I actually didn’t spend too much energy on him,” Richard said.

I nodded in understanding. “Mom! Dad! When is brother Klain coming? You said he would come over today! However, he hasn’t shown up yet!” I heard Archie ask as he headed our way.

I helplessly looked at him. Archie was always excited when Klain came over; he simply couldn’t sit still when he knew that he would come around.

“What is the time?” I asked. Archie looked at his watch before walking away in frustration.

I smiled in amusement at his actions. “Is Tracy still running around with Massey and Michelle? She also won’t venture into fashion, will she?” Richard worriedly asked.

“Tracy just likes being around them; they also indulge her and give her whatever she wants. I, however, can see that she isn’t interested in fashion at all,” I calmly said as I held Henry’s hand.

“I was planning on training Massey and handing over ‘Miracle Swan’ to her. What do you think?” I slowly asked Richard.

“You can do whatever you want. I was waiting for you to hand over the company to someone. We should take a vacation; I will take you all around the world,” Richard sighed as he said.

“Okay, I also would love to spend more time with you and the children,” I said as I gently kissed him.

“Mom! Dad! Klain… Ewwee… what are you doing?” Archie had walked towards us some time ago and interrupted our moment.

“You are not welcome here! Quickly go away!” Richard commanded.

Archie nonchalantly looked at his father. “Brother Klain has arrived; I just wanted to let you know,” he said as he turned to leave.

“Did you change your bickering from Fred to Archie now?” I helplessly asked.

“Who is bickering with who? That boy thinks he is now grown!” Richard said in dissatisfaction.

“Well, he has grown, and so have we. You are starting to sound old,” I said.

“Oh? I am old now?” Richard asked in an accusing tone.

I helplessly smiled, stood up, and held his hand before urging him to stand up. “Not old; you are handsome, my handsome lucky star. Let’s go,” I said as I pulled him towards the inside of the villa.

—————– END—————-

AUTHORS NOTE TO READERS.

Hello, my lovely readers! Thank you for reaching the end of my story . It was told from Shiba’s perspective alone.

If you were asked to choose any other perspective to listen to, which one would it be?
1. Henry?
2. Richard?
3. Ady?
4. Klain?
5. Massey?
6. Lilly?
7.Sima
8.Tanti
9. Any other I forgot?