Chapter 2
600words
"A mediocre designer from a no-name company. Claire Sanders, the very act of asking me is already seeking special treatment. You know how I feel about nepotism and backdoor deals."
I fought to contain my rage.
This hypocritical bastard! He beds beautiful celebrities left and right, yet has the nerve to stand there with that perfect face and lecture me about fairness?!
"Look, I'll take this design project seriously and create something truly exceptional. Just give me a shot! Our marriage is secret anyway, so no one will know you're showing favoritism. And as for sleeping your way to success—well, what's one more notch on your bedpost?"
Alexander Hart pinched my cheek and sneered: "Maybe spend less time reading gossip rags and more time developing actual skills. Isn't your monthly allowance enough to keep you entertained? I made it clear when we got married—being Mrs. Hart is just a title. Don't think you can leverage it for special privileges."
I widened my eyes, giving him my best puppy-dog look.
"Darling~ I'm just trying to build a career because, well, what if you get bored with me someday? I've grown accustomed to a certain lifestyle, and I'll need some marketable skills to maintain it."
"You? A lost cause." Alexander Hart walked away without a backward glance.
Three years ago, I married Alexander Hart for money, signing a contract like a business deal.
He desperately needed a wife to appease his critically ill grandmother.
Our relationship evolved over time, but the contract never stipulated celibacy.
Besides, with temptation constantly available, who could resist indefinitely?
The next morning, Alexander Hart sat at the dining table, waiting for me to serve breakfast.
"Tonight, we're having dinner with my grandmother."
My hand froze mid-motion as I prepared his noodles. "That's sudden. What time? I have an important appointment at 6 PM tonight."
"Is that right? And here I was actually considering your request from last night."
"I'll be there! Of course I'll be there! Nothing's more important than my husband's family!"
After making sure Alexander was fed, I immediately called my best friend.
"Grace, listen… is there any way to reschedule Dr. Pierce's appointment? Literally any time except 6 PM tonight would work!"
Grace practically exploded through the phone, "Are you out of your mind? Are you SERIOUS right now?! I pulled every string I had to get that appointment a YEAR ago! Do you have ANY idea who Kevin Pierce is? He's the most brilliant neurosurgeon in the field! He lives abroad and only comes back for a few days each year. His waiting list is FIVE YEARS long! Where exactly am I supposed to find another slot? What could possibly be more important than your mother's condition? Jesus, Claire, get your priorities straight! Your mom has been in intensive care for three years, draining thousands every month. If you don't feel that financial pressure, I certainly do!"
I gritted my teeth, "I know, I know, but this is about The Alice."
Grace fell silent for a moment, then sighed: "You can't keep living in the past, Claire. The living should be your priority now."
"I know, but The Alice… it's all I have left."
"Fine, I'll try! But don't hold your breath, Alice."
I thought I'd left my old life behind completely.
Along with the name Alice, everything had supposedly drowned with my father's death.
But truthfully, I was still clinging to the past.
Grace texted me shortly after.
[Moved to 7 PM, but there's a catch. It's during his "matchmaking hour."]
