"How many times do I have to explain this before you get it? What I'm giving her is just a show, a wedding in name only. Once it's over, I'm completely yours. Why can't you be satisfied with that?"
"Right, of course. Go ahead and get your marriage certificate then."
Jonah's fingers trembled slightly as he took the ID card.
Maybe he felt guilty, or maybe he was just trying to convince himself, but he hastily added, "Look, I'm not actually going to register the marriage with Nadia. We're just going through the motions at the City Hall..."
If it was just for show, why did he need his ID?
I responded with a simple "oh," my expression indifferent. Jonah seemed momentarily thrown off by my lack of reaction.
He hesitated, then stepped forward, trying to kiss me as if to soothe me—but before he could, Nadia, who had been eavesdropping at the door for who knew how long, suddenly barged in.
She lunged between us, using just enough force to knock me backward.
I lost my balance, stumbling onto the floor. At the same time, she flung herself dramatically into Jonah's arms.
He caught her instinctively, but the momentum sent them both toppling over.