Epilogue: White Lies
Epilogue
Gweneth Porthro
Born in the well-known Porthro family, I was raised with the knowledge and tradition suited for my title. I'm the second child of my parents, meaning I was provided wealth but not the attention I desperately yearn for. I wasn't capable enough to be showered with admiration and motivation like my older brother, and I wasn't lovable enough to be showered with the adoration like my younger sister. It doesn't help that my younger sister is sickly and the responsibilities she's supposed to carry is passed unto me.
And so to be deemed worthy of my surname, I worked hard to be recognized by my parents. I made sure to top my classes and to finish school with flying colors. I wasn't lacking in any field. I was called the pride of the family. Yet, all of it was for naught. I still didn't get the attention and love frkm my parents.
Until one day, I was called by my parents for what they said is an important announcement. They called me in for dinner in one of the finest place in our area. For once, I thought I will finally be recognized by them. Then they dropped the ball. I was to participate in an arranged marriage made effective by our grandfather between our family and the Bithell family. The original promise made contains the fact that the youngest daughter of age should be wed with their heir. Given the circumstances of my sister's health, I was sent in as a substitute. The Bithell Family is known as a family of power. They have generations of politicians that helped solidated their position in the country. But they are also famous for being ruthless and cold, hence being feared by the people.
That was my first impression of my husband Erim Bithell. I wouldn't even imagine how wrong I would be. The man who I thought would ignore me majority of our marriage turned out to be one caring and lovable husband. He is the definition of the 'ideal man'. Gorgeous, smart, rich, and did I mention that he was hot? He looks as if he would devour you any moment but whenever we were alone he would become a different person. So gentle as if I'd break with just a little force. Life with him made me forget how miserable I was back at the Porthro Family house. It was like a gentle breeze hugs my skin whenever he's around. I feel an unexplainable comfort like I will never be hurt as long as I'm with him.
I knew I loved him when he expressed his interest in the things I do. Nobody ever paid attention to my work, but he openly talks about it. He would accompany me whenever I'd paint. He would watch my favourite show with me. He'd make sure he's there for every special event, but most importantly, he always makes me feel appreciated. We would spend our nights together engulfed by our warmth. Spending my lifetime with him wouldn't be bad.
These days I keep thinking of how good it would be to have mini-mes of the two of us running around and making a mess of the house. Just as I was about to call his name, Erim suddenly popped out of the corner of my eye.
"Good morning, love." He greeted with his smooth deep voice. I've always loved his voice and how it rings on my ear.
"Good morning! Have your breakfast, you still have a long day ahead" I served him his breakfast as usual. He doesn't oblige me to cook his meals, it's just my way of helping him since he's the heir of their company so he's bound to be busy. I also make sure to make his lunch because he often forgets to eat while in work.
He gave me a kiss as he sat down. He is wearing his work attire which I find very attractive. A lot of men and women fall in love with him whenever they see Erim. I can't blame them though.
"I saw Jeyen's baby the other day, she was so cute! I couldn't help myself I wanted to pinch her cheeks" I opened up a topic hoping to send him a message about my baby fever.
He laughed, "Control yourself, babe. It wouldn't be good for the baby's skin" I can't help but fall in love over and over again with this beautiful man in front of me. Sometimes I even thank the heavens for my sister's health making it possible for me to meet Erim.
He finished his meal and went to finish dressing up. He seems to be in an awfully good mood today.
"You look excited." I said while staring at his smile. He looked at me through the mirror before turning around to face me.
"Well, things have been going well. I do hope it will remain like this for a longer amount of time" He squeezed my hand and hugged me before making sure he got everything he needed.
I walked with him as we got out our house to his car. "Take care, hon. I'll wait for you" I waved at him while he smiled and honked. I watched as the car disappeared into the distance.
It wasn't until when I went back inside the kitchen did I notice the lunch pack I made for him. He forgot to bring it with him earlier. I decided I'm gonna bring it to the office since it's also been a long time since I went there.
Everybody seems to be shocked to see me, but they kept making small talk which makes me a bit frustrated as the time for Erim's break is running out. I purposely told them that I needed to get by Erim's office immediately. The assistant seemed hesitant to let me in but I persuaded her. Everyone was acting suspicious and my heart wouldn't settle. It was as if I knew there was something fishy going on.
The walk to my husband's office felt like hours. Every step of mine is accompanied by my heavy breath. When I reached the door something urged me to just leave but my stubbornness got to me.
I wished I never opened the door. 'Cause when I did it felt like my heart dropped. There he was, my husband of three years, and my sister, entangled in a heated embrace. The horrified look on Erim's face is what brought me back to my senses. I thought he would apologize and beg for my forgiveness, but boy was I wrong. Anger was visible through his eyes and gritted teeth. My sister hurriedly put on her clothes and hid behind my husband.
"What the f**k are you doing here?!" His raised voice surprised me. Never did he once raise his voice to me.
"What the f**k are YOU doing, Erim?" I asked through my tears. I can feel my whole body tremble as I try to get a clear grasp of the situation.
He ruffled his hair and yelled at the asistant who let me in. He didn't even bother to explain to me or whatnot. I looked at my sister who is avoiding my eyes. I never imagined she would do this to me. Out of all people.
"Gweneth, just please... get out of here. I don't have the time to talk right now" I was flabbergasted at what he said. I looked at him in shock and pain. I was hoping for an apology or explanation. Why did it feel like I'm the one intruding their affairs?
He ordered his guards to escort me out. I complied but not without screaming at him. I screamed at the top of my lungs hoping he'd realize the pain he has caused me. He did not even spare one glance at me. It was like I was thrown out. Like I was abandoned.