Chapter 3 Maxine felt every drop of blood in her body freeze. "Husband and wife. What a pair of 'husband and wife," she thought bitterly. But before she could collect herself, she saw Reid slip off his prayer beads and gently place them on Kelsey's wrist. "And another thing-don't ever call yourself a burden again," he said softly. "These prayer beads have been blessed. I've worn them for seven years. From now on, you'll wear them -they'll keep you safe." Kelsey was so moved she burst into tears, reaching out to hug him. Maxine's vision blurred. She felt as if she were sinking beneath the waves, drowning in the deep. Those prayer beads were her gift to him. She went to great lengths to get them when she was 18, even traveling to a distant church for a blessing. Amidst the pouring rain that day, she stumbled and fell, leaving a permanent scar on her knees. When Reid knew about this, he swept her into his arms, his eyes red, and said in a trembling voice, "Max, are you out of your mind? Who told you to go through all that?" She'd smiled as she slipped the prayer beads onto his wrist. "They say these will keep you safe and give you a long, peaceful life." He'd bent down and kissed her, promising, "I'll wear them for the rest of my life." And for seven years, he kept his word. Whether he was at the most formal business events or in the most private moments, those prayer beads were always on his wrist. But now, he'd placed them on another woman's hand. It felt like her heart was being carved open, slowly and mercilessly, until even breathing hurt. So, his "rest of my life" only lasted seven years. 0.0% • 06:31 Chapter 3 She turned and walked away, her steps unsteady, as if she were walking on clouds. By the time she got home, it was late. She'd barely stepped inside when the phone rang. 1 288 Vouchers It was Reid's voice. "Babe, something urgent came up at work. I have to make a trip overseas for a few days. Don't be mad-I'll make it up to you when I get back." Maxine's fingers tightened around the receiver, trembling. She wanted to ask, "Are you really going on a business trip, or are you just spending a few days with your wife?" But in the end, she didn't say a word. Only silent tears blurred her vision. "Okay." After that, she spent all her time packing. IDs, passport, bank drafts-anything that proved who she was, she tucked into her suitcase. Three days later, Reid returned. He walked in the door carrying an enormous bouquet of roses in one hand and a strawberry cake in the other, his smile gentle. "Babe, I'm home." ine stood in the center of the living room, watching him quietly. ame over, set the flowers and cake on the table, and reached out to hug her. "The company really a mess these past few days. I had to go abroad-otherwise, I never would've left you for so long. Please don't be mad, okay?" She turned slightly, avoiding his embrace, her voice calm. "I'm not mad. Go take care of your work." He froze for a second, then smiled. "No more work-it's all done. From now on, my only job is making you happy." He took her hand, looking at her with anticipation. "I've got a surprise for you." Before she could answer, he led her out to the car. Half an hour later, they stopped in front of a concert hall. When Maxine walked inside, she realized the entire hall had been reserved. The seats were filled, and as 39.7 %. 06:31 Chapter 3 288 iVouchers they entered, people began to whisper. "Mr. Merrow really went all out-he booked the whole concert hall just for Ms. Valemont!" "I heard he flew in her favorite orchestra from overseas. They're playing her favorite pieces all day, just for her." "That orchestra's rates have skyrocketed-this gig cost him at least a grand." "That's nothing! Mr. Merrow is famous for spoiling his wife!" Standing under the dazzling lights, surrounded by murmurs of envy, Maxine looked at Reid's warm, loving smile. But her heart felt submerged in ice water, aching from the cold. He gave her a grand romance, but gave someone else the title of wife. He let her bask in everyone's envy, while another woman's name was written on his marriage certificate. Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!