Chapter 5

I looked at Alexander, knowing he had no idea I wasn't Natalie.

In the early days of our marriage, he used to call me "Nat." But it always felt wrong, so I told him my nickname was "Lil."

He was overjoyed then, repeating it many times. He said that by telling him my nickname, it meant I was starting to accept him and become closer to him.

"Alex, do you really love me?" I asked suddenly.

Alexander didn't understand my question and teased, "What's gotten into you today?"

"Tonight, I'll prove that I only love you. I'll save all my energy for you," he winked.

I blushed at his words, and Alexander's gaze remained tender.

That night, I was unusually proactive. Perhaps it was the fear of our impending separation.

After all, we would soon be strangers.

Alexander held me close, my legs wrapped around his waist, my arms tight around his neck.

In the heat of the moment, my neck arched beautifully, and he placed a kiss there, sending shivers through my body. He wasn't faring much better, his breathing ragged and uneven.

"Lily, you're so good tonight," he groaned.

Encouraged by his praise, I tried to match his passion, but he always maintained the upper hand. Eventually, exhausted, I drifted off to sleep.

Just before I lost consciousness, I thought I heard him whisper:

"Lily, I will love you forever."

"When will you finally recognize me?"

"You silly girl."