Playing Mrs. Beckett

Chapter 8

Sophie woke up to the smell of coffee.

For a brief, disorienting second, everything felt normal. Then last night came rushing back. The midnight whisper. The birthday call. The promises meant for another woman.

And just like that, whatever lingering doubt she still carried vanished.

The strange thing was that Sophie wasn't heartbroken anymore. She thought she would be. Three years of marriage should have earned at least that much. Instead, all she felt was an almost frightening sense of clarity.

It was ironic how quickly the heart adjusted. Just yesterday she was hurting, almost grieving the c***k in her marriage. She had hoped for things to be just her misunderstanding because the look Adrian gave was still the same; pure, loving. But now all that remained was a quiet, unwavering anger.

Sophie sat up. Through the window, Long Island was bright and indifferent. Somewhere beyond the bathroom door she could hear Adrian humming—cheerful, oblivious. Completely unaware that the ground had begun to shift beneath him.

That was it. Adrian was no longer dedicated to his role as a husband. Perhaps it was time for her to end her role, as well. Mrs. Beckett had served her purpose.

But for that, several things must be done. The lawyer was just the beginning. Sophie swiftly sent two texts. One to her private investigator, trusting them to collect evidence. The other was an accountant.

Sophie had no shortage of money. Even so, there were debts that deserved to be collected.

Her preparations stopped the moment Adrian stepped out of the bathroom. Meeting Adrian’s cheerful gaze, Sophie felt strangely calm. Now that she knew her marriage was truly over, playing her role had just got easier. Good. For the last stretch, she needed to be clear-headed.

“Good morning, dear,” Sophie said, her smile perfect. Adrian handed her their breakfast, a set of croissants and coffee. Sophie caressed his cheek, planting a light kiss.

“Thank you,” she said, deliberately showing an improved mood. This made Adrian exhaled, something he didn’t even realize. Sophie caught that relief and said nothing. Somehow, even that didn’t matter anymore.

After breakfast, they walked on the beach for a while, soaking in sunlight. She found herself a hammock and sat, letting Adrian walk alone for a little while. Just in time, because she received a message.

“Hello, Mrs. Sophie Beckett. I am David Lawrence, the lawyer appointed by Mr. Langham. I want to inform you that my flight is set for today. I will contact you tomorrow afternoon at the earliest.”

One corner of her lips lifted, typing a quick acknowledging message. Then she approached Adrian, who took her in his arms with a practiced ease. Sophie smiled, snuggling in his chest. For the last time. Let her inhale this oud and musk scent one last time.

The entire drive back was enjoyable, and Sophie was all smiles. Adrian saw this, a wash of relief crossed his face. Perhaps he thought he had succeeded in coaxing her. Sophie let him think that way. Of course. After all, she was his sweet, manageable wife.

Then, Adrian’s phone rang. The bluetooth was connected to the dashboard system, so the caller ID was displayed. Adrian paused, but when he saw that it was Mr. Abbott, he relaxed.

“Hello, Mr. Abbott,” Adrian said. “Anything wrong?”

“There is a file that urgently needs your signature, Mr. Beckett,” Mr. Abbott’s voice rang, monotone and professional. “It would be great if you can come to the office.”

Adrian turned to Sophie. As if asking for permission, he frowned, clearly looking conflicted. Sophie shook her head softly. “Don’t worry about me,” she said. “It’s about work. I’m willing to compensate.”

“Here’s an idea,” Adrian said. “What if I take you to my office? It’s been a while for you, right?”

Sophie blinked, staring at Adrian. What move was this? Him taking her to his love nest with Julia Hall? But Sophie welcomed the invitation. After all, knowing was half the battle. If she was planning for divorce, she should know what she was up against.

“Can I?”

“Of course you can, darling,” Adrian responded, kissing the back of her hand. “You will always have free access to my office.”

Sophie smiled—who knew that her meek smile was easier to do with a dead heart?

“Then I’ll intrude, Mr. Beckett.”

Adrian smiled and squeezed her hand. With their destination set, they went straight to Beckett Holdings headquarter.

Sophie walked through the main door, arm linked to Adrian’s. How nostalgic—it had indeed been a while. She often came here to bring lunch. Everytime she did, she wore a proud face, like a proper wife’s awe towards her husband’s achievement.

Several people immediately recognized her. They gave a polite smile and exchanged greetings as she walked towards Adrian’s private elevator.

The elevator door opened with a ding, right across it the door to Adrian’s private office.

And the first person Sophie saw walking out of it was Julia Hall.