He looked down at me and for the first time, I saw a flicker of something close to concern.
"When you’re better, come with us to the Maldives. You need to relax."
"No need to," I said quietly.
He frowned, confused.
Some time ago, Michael had also promised me a honeymoon. But when we arrived, I learned Regina had come too. She didn’t like the food there, so I was forced to cook and clean for them. I was treated like a maid.
When I refused, Michael got angry and took away my phone and passport. He left me alone, in a foreign country where I didn’t speak the language. I had no money and no way to get home.
A stranger almost tricked me into going with him. If I hadn’t escaped, I might never have made it back. That trip left a scar in my heart that never healed.
This time, I would not be fooled again.
Michael noticed my cold expression and looked annoyed. He opened his mouth, probably wanting to scold me. But when he saw how pale I was, he held back.
He looked away and said, almost gently, "You should rest, Evelyn. I’ll bring you a gift when I return."
I didn’t reply. Instead, I watched as he walked back to Regina’s side and kissed her forehead. She smiled sweetly, like she had already won.