I found a box of ultra-thin condoms in Serena’s bag. Rose-scented. And half-used. My gut twisted into a knot. I was allergic to latex; I never used that stuff. Just as I was debating whether to call her, Serena beat me to it: “Honey, I have to meet a client tonight, so I won’t be home for dinner.” “Might be busy until midnight, so you go to bed early and don’t wait up.” “Love you!” I swallowed my surging emotions and asked, “Where are you meeting this client?” She hesitated for a few seconds before naming a well-known upscale hotel in the city. I snatched my car keys, didn’t waste another second, and drove straight to that hotel. Walking into the high-end restaurant on the second floor, I quickly spotted Serena by the floor-to-ceiling windows. Sitting opposite her was a man in a perfectly tailored suit, exuding an air of easy confidence. I instantly recognized him as her boss, Blake, not a “client” at all. Candlelight flickered, casting an intimate glow on their faces. The table was laden with exquisite dishes and a bottle of red wine. I discreetly found a dimly lit corner and sat down. A waiter approached, and I casually ordered a drink, my gaze locked onto them. They were deep in conversation, Serena’s face adorned with a shy smile I’d never seen before. Blake said something, and she covered her mouth, giggling softly. Her eyes, as they met his, burned with undisguised affection. Later, they even raised their glasses, linking arms for an intimate toast right there in public. They didn’t seem to care who saw them. Blake leaned in and whispered, Serena’s cheeks flushed crimson, and she gave him a coy tap. From her lip movements, I could guess it was blatant flirting. Then came an even more sickening sight. Blake’s hand, so naturally, slipped under the table, resting on Serena’s thigh, which was clad in sheer stockings, gently caressing it. Serena’s body stiffened for a brief moment but she didn’t push him away. She just shot him a mock-reproachful glance. Blake moved closer, his voice low, but from the movement of his lips and a few hushed syllables that wafted over, I caught the meaning. “Baby, tonight… don’t go back…” Serena hesitated. “No, I can’t stay out all night. He’ll get suspicious.” “He?” Blake scoffed, a sneer twisting his lips. “You mean Alex? Please. That predictable tech guy?” “What can he give you? A stable, poor life?” He paused, his disdain growing thicker. “With his meager paycheck, he can’t even make you happy, can he?” “Don’t you get bored with him?” “A man who doesn’t even know how to be exciting, does he even deserve to be called a man?” Serena didn’t object. She just lowered her head, nervously swirling the stem of her wine glass. I sat in my corner, blood rushing to my head. I wanted to storm over, smash that wine glass into Blake’s disgusting face, and grab Serena, demanding to know why. But I held back. Impulse wouldn’t solve anything. It would only make me look more pathetic and ridiculous. I would make them pay. In my own way, I’d make them regret everything they did today! They sat for a while longer, Blake’s hand never quite still. Finally, he waved for the check, then stood up, naturally slinging his arm around Serena’s waist. She half-resisted, half-yielded, and they walked out of the restaurant, heading towards the elevator to the hotel’s guest rooms. After watching their backs disappear, I waited another five minutes before picking up my phone. “How was the client meeting? I happened to be doing something nearby. When will you be done? I can pick you up.” Message sent. I placed my phone face up on the table and waited. I imagined the chaos that would erupt in one of the rooms upstairs when that message suddenly lit up the screen. Half a minute later, Serena finally called. “Honey, what are you doing here?” “Oh, just finished up some errands.” I said casually, my gaze sweeping over the empty restaurant. “You? Are you done? I’m downstairs, can come up anytime to get you.” “Ah? Co-come up?” Her voice shot up, then quickly dropped, panic almost spilling through the receiver. “No, no need! Uh… the client, the client isn’t quite finished yet. It might take a bit longer.” “How much longer?” I pressed, my tone still even. “Maybe… maybe an hour or two? I can’t really say…” She stammered. “How about you just go home first? I’ll just grab a cab when I’m done.” “It’s fine, I’m not in a hurry.” I leaned back against the booth. “I’ll wait for you in the restaurant downstairs. Just come down when you’re finished, or tell me the room number, and I’ll come up.” “No!”
She practically shrieked her refusal, then quickly realized her mistake and tried to salvage it. “I mean… the restaurant, the restaurant might be closing soon…” “How about this, I’ll ask the client if we can wrap things up early.” “Alright, then hurry. I’ll wait for your message.” Less than five minutes later, Serena came downstairs. I looked up. The dress she’d worn, perfectly pressed earlier, now had a few barely noticeable wrinkles. The nude stockings she wore had a small tear above the knee. A small patch of skin on her neck was flushed red, like she’d brushed against something, or perhaps been passionately kissed. Her usually smooth hair wasn’t as neat as when she left; a few strands had escaped their style, looking a little messy. Most striking were her eyes, filled with obvious resentment and a hint of annoyance at having her fun interrupted. I pretended not to notice, put on a warm smile, and walked towards her. “How was the client meeting? Did it go well?” She didn’t stop, walking straight out of the restaurant, her voice clipped and distant. “It was fine. What else could it be?” “I’m exhausted. Let’s just go home.” I nodded, asked no more questions, and followed her to the parking lot. All the way home, she stared out the window, her lips tightly pressed, not saying a single word. The silence in the car was suffocating. Back home, Serena kicked off her heels, tossed her bag onto the sofa, and walked straight to the bathroom. “I’m going to take a shower first.” I said nothing. When she came out of the shower, drying her hair as she walked into the bedroom in her nightgown, I tried to sound as normal as possible. “Honey, it feels like… it’s been a while since we were intimate.” “Tonight? Can we?” Her hand, drying her hair, paused. She didn’t look at me, continuing towards the vanity. “Not tonight, I’m too tired.” “I was busy all day at work, then had to entertain. I really don’t have the energy.” I’d expected this, so I simply hummed in acknowledgment and didn’t push. Just then, her phone, lying on the bedside table, lit up. I wasn’t far, and I instantly saw the two words flashing on the screen. Blake. She immediately grabbed the phone, her finger sliding to answer, and said to me, “The company probably needs me for something. You go to sleep first, don’t wait for me.” As she spoke, she hurried out of the bedroom, pulling the door shut behind her. But it didn’t close completely, leaving a slight gap. I tiptoed to the door. In the living room, she was speaking in a hushed voice. “…Mm, got it… He’s not asleep yet… It’s fine…” Her voice held a softness and coquettishness I’d never heard before. “…Oh, don’t be impatient… It’s not tonight… Mm, tomorrow, I’ll definitely make it up to you, okay?” “I’ll wear my black stockings tomorrow… You can do whatever you want…” “Don’t worry, without your permission, I would never let him touch me…” Her voice trailed off, interspersed with shy, quiet giggles. I stood rooted to the spot, feeling none of the expected rage. Only a chilling stillness, and a nearly cruel clarity. About fifteen minutes later, I heard her hang up and her footsteps approaching the bedroom. I immediately got back into bed, lying down with my back to the door. Closing my eyes, I regulated my breathing, pretending to be fast asleep. She gently pushed the door open, paused for a moment at the entrance, seemingly observing me. Then, I felt the mattress on the other side slightly dip. She carefully lay down, trying to make no sound.
The next day was Saturday. I was the first to wake up. By the time I’d made a simple breakfast, she was just rubbing her eyes, emerging from the bedroom. “Any plans for today?” I took a sip of milk, asking casually. She lowered her head, stirring her oatmeal with a spoon, looking drained. “What plans could I have? Going back to the office to work overtime, of course. The project’s been hectic lately, and the client’s demands are high.” “Oh, take care of yourself.” She nodded, saying no more. She quickly finished her meal, then went to get ready, applying makeup and changing clothes. Before she left, she stood in the entryway putting on her heels. I watched her meticulously drawn brows and eyes, and her lips, a shade brighter than usual, and slowly began, “Will you be home for dinner tonight?” She opened the door, not looking back. “Not sure, depends on the progress. Don’t wait for me.” The door clicked shut. I walked to the window, looking downstairs. Soon, her familiar figure appeared at the community entrance, but she didn’t head towards the usual bus stop. Instead, she got straight into a black Mercedes that had appeared by the curb. The car windows were tinted dark; I couldn’t see inside. But I knew that car, and I knew who was driving it. I pulled out my phone and made a call: “Hey, Mark, I need a favor…” The midday sun was a bit blinding. Carrying carefully chosen gifts, I knocked on the Davies’ door without giving Serena’s parents any prior notice. Mrs. Davies’s face showed a flicker of surprise when she opened the door, quickly replaced by warmth. Mr. Davies also rose from the sofa, smiling as he came to greet me. “Alex, what a surprise! Serena’s not with you?” Mrs. Davies took the clearly expensive gifts from my hands, her tone cordial. “She’s working overtime this weekend. I thought I hadn’t visited you in a while, so I came by myself.” “Perfect timing! I’ll cook a few extra dishes. You must try my cooking!” The dining table was laden with food, and Mrs. Davies kept piling my plate. The conversation soon shifted from pleasantries to the main topic. “Alex, you and Serena have been together for years now. This wedding… isn’t it time to set a date?” Mr. Davies put down his forks, his voice tentative. I swallowed my food, a perfectly measured smile on my face. “Mr. and Mrs. Davies, don’t worry. I’ve already decided on the wedding, just waiting to discuss the exact date with Serena.” “As for the bridal gifts…” I paused, noting how they both unconsciously leaned forward. “My family and I have agreed: a million dollars cash.” I spoke calmly, as if discussing something trivial. Mr. and Mrs. Davies both froze, exchanged glances, unable to hide their astonishment. “And,” I continued, “a fully-paid luxury apartment downtown, no less than 150 square meters, and a BMW car. All registered solely in Serena’s name.” The air was silent for a moment. “A… a million? And an apartment and a car?” Mrs. Davies’s voice trembled, laced with disbelief and joy. “Alex, this… Serena never mentioned your family was so well-off?” I knew they would ask and had my answer ready. “Just lucky, I guess.” I smiled, my tone casual, with a humble air of “it’s not for public knowledge.” “A property deal back home came through recently, and we received a significant payout. My parents thought it was perfect timing for us to start our family.” The reason was simple, direct, and hard to verify. An unexpected windfall – a classic American dream, capable of explaining any sudden improvement in financial status. Their doubts vanished instantly, replaced by immense delight. Mr. Davies clapped my shoulder heartily, his face beaming. “Wonderful! Wonderful! Alex, knowing Serena is with you, we’re completely at ease!” Mrs. Davies couldn’t stop smiling, looking at me as if I were a shining goldmine. I sneered inwardly. See how realistic they are. Before, they were polite enough, but always with a hint of scrutiny and calculation towards an ordinary working-class prospective son-in-law. Now, with a million dollars, a house, and a car thrown in, their attitude completely changed. “Mr. and Mrs. Davies,” I continued to sweeten the deal, acting like the most dutiful son-in-law, “after Serena and I get married and settled, I’ll arrange a time to take you both on a trip to Europe. All expenses covered. You can browse, buy whatever you like.” “Europe?” Mrs. Davies exclaimed, her eyes sparkling even brighter. “Yes, France, Italy, Switzerland, you should see them all.” I smiled, painting a picture of a luxurious trip they’d never dared to imagine. “Oh my! This… how could we possibly accept!” Mr. Davies feigned refusal, but his face was creased with smiles. “It’s my pleasure,” I said sincerely. “To marry Serena is my good fortune, and to ensure her family lives well is my responsibility.” I spoke with such conviction, I almost believed myself.
Mrs. Davies grabbed my hand, moved. “Serena marrying you is her good fortune! Alex, you’re truly wonderful!” I smiled back, my smile flawless. Serena returned after 1 AM. Carrying the scent of smoke, alcohol, and men’s cologne. She kicked off her heels, her steps a little unsteady. Seeing me on the sofa, she paused. “Not asleep yet?” “Waiting for you.” I put down the book I hadn’t actually been reading, my voice calm. “I want to talk about the wedding.” She froze. “Why the sudden talk about this?” “It’s not sudden, we’ve been together for years.” “I went to see your parents today and discussed it with them.” She turned, her face full of surprise. “You went to my parents’? Why didn’t you tell me?” “Wanted to surprise you.” I smiled, walking towards her, observing the subtle shifts in her expression. “I told your parents my plans. Bridal gifts: a million dollars cash.” Serena’s fingers tightened around the water glass she was holding. I continued, “A fully-paid luxury apartment downtown, over 150 square meters, and I’ll buy you a BMW. All registered solely in your name.” The surprise on her face gradually morphed into barely suppressed delight, her eyes flickering. “Alex, you… where did you get all this money?” “Just happened to have an unexpected real estate windfall back home,” I said nonchalantly. “Didn’t want to say anything until it was confirmed. Now that the money’s secured, it’s time to set our wedding date.” The last trace of doubt vanished from her eyes, replaced by an almost burning glow. “You’re unbelievable, not telling me about something this big beforehand.” “However… you’ve already discussed it with my parents, so what can I say?” She took a step forward, gently leaned into my embrace, and wrapped her arms around my waist. “I’ll do whatever you want.” After her shower, Serena emerged wearing a silk nightgown. She lay beside me, her arm draped across my chest, her eyes seductively alluring. “Honey, I want…” She tilted her head, her lips actively seeking mine. I suddenly remembered Blake’s words on the phone: “Without your permission, I would never let him touch me.” My stomach churned, and I felt on the verge of throwing up right then and there. A split second before her lips touched mine, I pushed her away. She froze. I sat up, took a deep breath. “I’m sorry, I really don’t feel well today. My head’s spinning.” “And… there’s a lot to prepare for tomorrow.” “Let’s just get some sleep.” In the darkness, I could feel her gaze on me, filled with astonishment and a hint of rejected anger. But she said nothing more, silently turned over, and lay with her back to me. Soon after, I heard the steady rhythm of her breathing, whether real or feigned, I couldn’t tell. I, however, had no sleep in me. My eyes remained open until the sky began to lighten. … On the morning of the engagement party, while Serena was getting her hair done, I quietly picked up her phone. The password was still the one we’d set when we first started dating; she’d never changed it. The latest messages were from Blake, sent in the early hours. “The thought of you marrying him makes me sick.” “Where’s the dressing room? I’ll come find you before the ceremony.” “Wearing that gown… I want you right there.” “Consider it an engagement gift for Alex!” I smirked, silently placing the phone back. Screen down, as if untouched. Then, I pulled out my own phone and sent a message. “Dressing room, before the ceremony.” “Everything else, as planned.”
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