The Unacknowledged Wife

Chapter 2 First Meeting

About an hour later, the car carrying Henry and Nina finally arrived at the spacious single-level home where Rose and Leo Joseph lived with their family. The house was surrounded by extensive gardens.

As the car entered the main gate, a security guard immediately came forward to greet Henry. He helped open the car door and assisted Rehman in settling Henry into his wheelchair. Nina stepped out reluctantly and slowly, then retrieved her suitcase from the trunk.

Before she could reach the front door, it swung open to reveal Joe, Rose, and Leo all waiting to welcome them.

"Thank goodness you've arrived safely," Rose greeted them, giving Henry a hug. Leo and Joe followed suit.

"How are you, sweetheart? Doing alright?" Leo asked affectionately, patting Nina's shoulder. Nina simply smiled and nodded.

"Come inside now. I know you must be tired, but Prita's family is visiting tonight for dinner. The wedding is in just two days, after all."

Rose walked briskly into the house, telling Nina to freshen up first.

"Joe, could I use a shower somewhere?" Nina blurted out as soon as she entered.

The large house had only three main bedrooms and one guest room, with staff quarters at the rear. The main bedrooms were for Joe's parents, Joe himself, and Ben.

During usual visits, Nina would stay in the guest room while Henry used Ben's room. This time was different because Ben had returned. Henry would stay in the guest room with Rehman, leaving Nina unsure of where to stay.

Nina wouldn't have minded staying in the staff quarters with Irene, but Rose would certainly not allow it. Thinking quickly, Nina decided she would attend the dinner and then find a hotel nearby.

"Just use Ben's room to shower, Nina! You can't use Joe's room. Don't worry, Ben has his own apartment now and rarely stays overnight here. He only stays if he's tired or it gets too late," Rose interjected.

"Oh, no, that's okay, Rose. It's not proper. What if Ben comes back and needs his room?"

"It's fine, trust me. Now take your suitcase there and shower quickly, then change into the dress I prepared for you."

With that, Rose walked away, already busy instructing other staff. Nina had no choice but to hurry towards Ben's room.

She slowly pushed open the door to a very spacious bedroom. She had been inside this room many times before when Henry stayed over, but only when necessary. This time was the same.

Nina saw a beautiful evening dress laid out on the bed, meaning she had to wear it tonight. She quickly opened her suitcase, took out her toiletries, and stepped into Ben's bathroom.

The girl had just finished her shower when she heard an argument outside the door. Nina moved closer and heard a deep, unfamiliar voice arguing with Rose.

"Why does she have to be here today, Mother? I've never even met her! More importantly, I've invited Delia to join us for dinner to meet Grandfather. But how do I explain Nina to Delia if she's here?"

"Ben! Regardless, Nina is still part of our family! How could she not be here, especially when she's been the one caring for your grandfather!"

"Then I won't attend dinner tonight!"

"You must, Ben! You are Joe's older brother! He's getting married the day after tomorrow, don't embarrass me, please! You have to be there! If you want to bring Delia, then bring her! I'll have another place set. Please, think of Joe for now!"

A tightness gripped Nina's chest. So Ben didn't want her here. Forget a greeting, he didn't even want her presence. This marriage truly was just a formality.

Looking at herself, Nina felt torn. She would feel scared and awkward if she left the room now and ran into Ben. As she began hurriedly gathering her things, stuffing items back into her suitcase, someone pushed open the bedroom door in agitation.

Crouched on the floor, Nina looked up in alarm to see a tall man in a dress shirt and suit jacket, without a tie, scrutinizing her sharply. The man was handsome, but his strong features gave his face a somewhat stern look.

"I'm sorry, I just borrowed the shower. I'll wipe the floor," Nina said nervously, hastily closing her suitcase.

The man just looked intently at Nina as she hurriedly stood up and began dragging her suitcase toward the door.

"Nina? Are you Nina?" Ben asked just as Nina was about to pass him. Nina stopped, nodded, then looked down and continued walking.

"Wait!" Ben called out quickly. Nina stopped, standing like a statue, not daring to look at the man now walking toward her.

Ben gazed deeply at Nina, as if searching for the scars he had seen years ago. But those marks seemed gone, and Ben felt relieved she was well.

Seeing Nina reminded him of her mother, Vivian, Henry's former nurse. Vivian had been exceptionally beautiful, with mixed heritage.

That beauty had been passed down to Nina. She had inherited the slender nose, defined face, large bright eyes, and fair skin.

Ben let out a long sigh. He was sure Nina had overheard his conversation.

"Where are you taking your suitcase?" Ben asked, looking at the luggage she clutched.

"To the front. So it's ready when the taxi arrives."

"Taxi? Aren't you joining us for dinner? Where are you going?"

"To a hotel. I'll make a brief appearance at dinner and then leave," Nina replied nervously, instantly regretting her honesty when she saw Ben frown.

"Do you know who I am?" Ben asked suddenly. Nina just nodded quickly, lowering her face.

"Stay in my room. I don't live here regularly anymore. I know our situation is awkward. I hope you won't mind if my girlfriend joins us for dinner tonight."

Nina could only listen silently to Ben's direct words.

"It's fine. I'm the one who should apologize. I shouldn't be here, putting you in an awkward position," Nina replied, beginning to feel a little calmer.

Ben nodded, grateful for her understanding, and prepared to leave.

"Ben!" Nina suddenly called out to him.

Ben turned back.

"Thank you for protecting me all these years. I have no intention of hindering your future. If you wish to end this arrangement, I will not oppose it. Please, we should get a divorce," Nina said slowly and clearly, looking at him with a firm gaze despite her nerves.

Ben was silent for a moment.

"It would be best to discuss this after Joe's wedding. Thank you for considering it. Please be patient for a few more days," he answered softly.

His expression seemed relieved. He offered a slight smile, then left Nina alone.

Nina stood there dazed. She felt a sense of relief, but also a flicker of fear. The life with all its support had been comfortable. If she divorced Ben, she would have to stand on her own. She needed to start preparing herself from now on.