forgotten vows

Chapter 5: A Husband's Responsibility

She wasn’t quite ready to greet a husband she hadn’t seen in three years, but he seemed fully prepared for this encounter.

"What do you want? I made a scene today and asked for ads. Are you upset?" She could already guess why he was here.

His thin lips were pressed together, a faint smile lingering on his face, yet it somehow felt more cold than welcoming.

"Believe me, take as many ads as you'd like. I recall promising to give you whatever you desire!"

Except love, she couldn’t help but remember.

As she leaned against the wall, facing him, a sense of helplessness washed over her.

If he had acted like this three years ago, she might have thought he had finally recognized her worth. Two years back, she might have believed he was ready to commit. A year ago, she could have imagined he was experiencing a sudden kindness, awakening to his feelings for her. But now, all she could do was question his true motives.

He studied her intently, noting the caution and watchfulness in her clear eyes, much like a lion poised to leap.

"Why, I just feel like stepping up and fulfilling my duties as a husband!"

She smiled back, "Then shouldn’t I return the gesture with my duties as a wife?"

He nodded, grinning, "How smart!"

Then, in a swift and dominating move, he pressed his lips against hers.

It happened so quickly that she barely had time to react. His lips were soft and carried a hint of tobacco, but lacked the warmth she had hoped for. He kissed her forcefully, trying to pry her lips open, invading with an overwhelming determination.

She fought against him, struggling to break free as he pinned her hands to the wall. Her muffled protests fell on deaf ears.

Just then, the phone on the coffee table began to vibrate and ring, causing him to momentarily pause. Seizing the opportunity, she managed to push him away. Without glancing back, she grabbed the phone from the table.

Oh great, another distraction.

Each time Brad calls her, it meant trouble, her biggest learning from three years in her job.

He watched her, noticing the flush on her cheeks and the lingering touch of his kiss on her lips. She answered the call, responding with an impatient tone, but the caller wasn’t ready to back down. Finally, she relented, saying, "Fine, I’ll be there shortly!"

After hanging up, she quickly gathered her things and turned to him, her expression neutral. "Sorry, I have to work, If you want to meet, just email me. No need to come here in person. I’m leaving now!" As she exited, she rubbed her lips vigorously as if to erase his presence.

Before she could walk out, he asked, "It’s getting late, which guy are you off to see?"

She turned, shooting him a glare. "I haven’t even asked you about which supermodel or celebrity you plan to sleep with!" With that, she slammed the door behind her, the sound of her high heels echoing down the hallway.

He stood alone in the vast living room, chuckling to himself. When did this woman transform from a lethargic cat into a fierce leopard, claws ready to strike?