Chapter 5

Alexander and Isabella were preparing for their wedding.

They were busy beyond belief.

Thank goodness Alexander found time in his busy schedule to give me a call. He said Isabella only had three months left to live, and that people nearing death are pitiful. He wanted to accompany her through this final journey.

He even comforted me, saying that after this final journey, he would marry me. He promised me an especially grand wedding, booking the best hotel in the city, hiring the best wedding planner, buying the most expensive wedding dress, and creating the most ceremonial atmosphere, complete with the traditional veil-lifting ceremony.

He said he would make it up to me, really make it up to me.

I said okay.

There was a choke on the other end of the line, and Alexander's voice was low: "Amelia, you've always been so understanding."

I licked my lips and said, "Let's break up."

After saying it, I felt childish.

Actually, we had already broken up when he and Isabella got their marriage certificate.

Alexander laughed: "Why are you saying such hurtful things? Don't joke around."

I said, "I can't possibly be a mistress, can I?"

Alexander's voice froze again, filled with what seemed like deep sympathy: "Don't talk about yourself like that. You're still carrying our child, aren't you? Be good, okay? Wait for me."

Oh.

Still carrying the child.

So that's his leverage.

Wanting me to really be that "virtuous" woman, waiting for him.

Dream on.