Chapter 1

On our wedding anniversary, I had meticulously planned everything, eager to spend this special day with my wife.

But when I got home, I found her closely interacting with her fitness trainer, Alex.

With a dismissive look, Alex said, "Nora, we're so close; your husband won't mind, right?"

Nora replied, unconcerned, "You're just here to help me with my workout. Why would he be upset?"

Then she turned to me, "Didn't I tell you I had a workout scheduled today? Why are you back?"

My heart instantly felt like it had turned to ice. "I just came to pick up something."

Nora scoffed, "Always so forgetful!"

"And what's with the necklace in your hand?"

I managed a strained smile, "Saw it, thought it looked nice, so I bought it."

Once outside, I threw the necklace onto the curb with frustration.

I had no reason to return home. I just didn’t want to leave in disgrace, so I pretended to search for something in the bedroom.

The room was a mess, cluttered with workout gear and sweaty towels, making my stomach churn.

I glanced at our wedding photo on the wall; my side of the image was scratched out.

With a bitter smile, I left the room.

In the living room, Nora was in snug workout gear, stretching under Alex's guidance.

Her face flushed, she playfully complained, "My muscles are so sore. Can't you be a little gentler?"

My heart was heavy with bitterness. She only strained her back while working out, yet constantly needed Alex’s "guidance."

After all, Alex was the one she couldn’t stop thinking about!

He looked at me, smugly, "The necklace you bought, was it for Nora?"

"Oh, if I had known you were going to give one, I wouldn't have given the same!"

Before I could respond, Nora frowned at me, "Do you have to mimic Alex in everything?"

"I never see you being this thoughtful!"

I didn't know how to explain, so I remained silent.

Nora sneered, "If you're done here, just leave. You're in the way!"

My heart ached unbearably.

When we were in love, she used to pack lunch for me every day, gently reminding me to take care of myself.

Now, she couldn't even look at me without disdain.

I said nothing back and turned to leave.

But Alex wouldn’t let it go, calling after me, "One necklace is enough for Nora!"

His words carried a hidden jab. "Don’t you think yours is unnecessary?"

I laughed coldly, "Whether it's unnecessary or not, we still have a legitimate marriage certificate."

"As for you, hanging around Nora without any clarity, what does that make you?"

Nora didn’t hesitate, slapping me across the face.

"Ryan, what nonsense are you spouting!"

Alex added fuel to the fire, "Nora, don’t be mad. It’s all my fault. Don’t let me ruin your peace."

With him around, how could there be any peace between Nora and me?

Alex looked defeated, "Nora, maybe I should leave?"

I couldn't help but laugh, mocking, "In broad daylight, what's the point of acting? It's the same wherever you act!"

Nora stood abruptly, glaring at me, "What’s wrong with you!"

"Every time you come back, you cause a ruckus! Do you hold a grudge against me?"

I laughed louder, feeling only despair inside. Am I crazy? It's all because they drove me to it!

I said nothing, taking the rejected necklace and leaving.

As I laughed, tears streamed down my face.

We went from college sweethearts to a married couple, once seen as a perfect match by everyone.

When she proposed to me, she promised to be by my side forever, never leaving.

But with a new fling, all promises vanished into thin air.

Not long after I left, Nora called.

Without waiting for me to speak, she scolded me, "You promised two days ago not to trouble Alex anymore. How quickly you forget!"

"Just because he's fit and cheerful, does he deserve your bullying?"

I was exhausted, too tired to argue.

Nora kept blaming me, "He's sensitive. Your words almost drove him to despair!"

"Tomorrow, go to his gym and apologize publicly, or we’re done!"

I couldn't believe she had the audacity to demand that I, the lawful husband, apologize to her lover in public.

I ignored her threats and hung up.

Finally, silence.

I slumped in the driver's seat, exhaling deeply.

I should’ve been used to it by now, right? Nora's hurt me more than once or twice.