Chapter 4

Anna sat staring at the screen during the FaceTime call. Neither of them spoke, but Naomi’s knowing smirk sent a heatwave rushing up Anna’s neck. She looked away, her cheeks turning a deep crimson.

“I still can’t believe this,” Naomi finally broke the silence, her eyes wide. “You actually slept with the Anthony Jeffery.”

Anna felt like she was burning up. She covered her face with her hands, but the blush peeked through her fingers.

“You have to tell me everything,” Naomi leaned into the camera. “Is the rumor true? Is he really… well, you know. Is he big?”

“Naomi, let’s not… okay, yes,” Anna whispered, a giggle escaping her. “It was massive.”

Both women erupted into squeals like teenagers sharing a secret. Anna leaned back against her headboard, a dazed smile on her face. “I haven’t been touched like that in so long. It feels like my soul and my body finally woke up.”

“I can see that. You’re literally glowing,” Naomi said, propping her chin on her hand.

“I don’t think I’ll ever forget that night,” Anna sighed, her gaze drifting to the ceiling. “I won't call it magical—that’s too much—but it didn't feel like just a one-night stand. It felt like… more. But it’s too bad I’ll never experience it again.” Her smile faded, replaced by a heavy shadow.

“Why not? You’re in an open marriage now. Technically, the world is your oyster.”

“Not with a man like him,” Anna said, her tone sharpening. “You said it yourself—he’s complicated. I’m sure he has a line of women out the door, and I won’t just be another number. I still have some dignity left.”

Naomi’s expression shifted, becoming uncharacteristically grave. “I get it. But I have to ask you something serious.”

“What?”

“Did you use protection?”

The blood drained from Anna’s face. She froze, her mouth falling open as she frantically searched her memory. There had been no fumbling for a wrapper, no pause in the heat of the moment.

“Girl, don’t tell me…” Naomi started.

“I’m dead,” Anna choked out. Her hands started to shake. “What was I thinking? What if I caught something? Or worse… what if I get pregnant?”

“Listen, he doesn't look like the type to carry diseases, but you need to go get Plan B right now. You still have time,” Naomi urged. Anna took a shaky breath, trying to steady her racing heart. “And the job? Have you applied?”

“I did, but I haven't heard back and—”

The heavy thud of the front door echoed through the house, cutting her off. Anna’s stomach tightened—not with excitement, but with a familiar, weary dread.

“Jake’s home. I’ll call you later,” she hissed, ending the call just as the bedroom door swung open.

Jake didn’t storm in. He leaned against the doorframe, watching her with a look of disappointed patience. He stayed there for a long beat before walking toward her, stopping just shy of her personal space.

“I know you didn’t actually go through with it, Anna,” he said, his voice dropping into that soft, soothing register he used when he wanted to end an argument. When she didn't look at him, he sighed. “I know you’re hurt. I know my words were harsh, but you’re my wife. You’re better than some cheap revenge fling.”

He stepped closer, reaching out to tuck a stray hair behind her ear. Anna flinched.

“I’m sorry for the way things have been,” he continued, ignoring her recoil. “I’ve been under incredible pressure at work, and you’ve been so… distant lately. I looked for a connection elsewhere because I couldn't find it here. But that’s over now. I’m choosing us.”

“Choosing us?” Anna’s voice was sharp and brittle. “You demanded an open marriage, Jake.”

“I was frustrated,” he said smoothly, as if he were explaining something to a child. “I said things I didn't mean to wake you up. And look, it worked. You’re finally showing some fire again.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box.

Anna’s eyebrows pulled together. “What is that?”

“A fresh start.” He flipped the lid. A diamond necklace glittered—too bright, too expensive, a bribe in the shape of jewelry. “To remind you that I provide for you. That I care.”

He tried to step behind her to clasp it around her neck, but she shoved the box back against his chest. “I don’t want it, Jake. I don’t want gifts.”

Jake’s face didn't crumble; it hardened. The "loving husband" mask slipped, revealing the coldness underneath. He caught her wrist, his grip just firm enough to be a warning.

“You are still my wife,” he muttered, his jaw tight. “And since you’re so fond of reminding me of my ‘obligations,’ remember yours. I just cleared your mother’s hospital arrears. The least you can do is put on the necklace and play the part.”

He released her, his eyes cold. “There is a party tonight. My new boss will be there. You’re coming, you’re wearing the diamonds, and you’re going to be the supportive wife I pay for you to be.”

He turned and strode away without looking back. Anna’s fingers curled into tight fists, her nails digging into her palms. Her mother’s hospital bills were a mountain of debt she couldn't climb alone. She was trapped by his money, and she hated herself for it.

***

The ballroom was a sea of silk dresses and sharp suits. Anna stood stiffly by Jake’s side, the diamond necklace feeling like a heavy iron chain around her throat.

“Stay here. I need to greet a few people,” Jake commanded. Anna gave a stiff nod.

She scanned the room, watching women in power suits laugh and exchange business cards. A pang of regret twisted in her chest; if she hadn't dropped her studies, she might have been standing there as their equal instead of a trophy on Jake's arm.

Her breath hitched. Across the room stood Anthony. Anna’s stomach dropped, and she quickly looked at the floor. How is he here? She risked another glance. Anthony was already staring at her. Her heart hammered against her ribs like a trapped bird. He began walking toward her, his stride confident. Anna’s legs felt like lead; she wanted to bolt for the door, but she couldn't move.

“We meet again,” Anthony said, a slow grin spreading across his face as he reached her.

Anna opened her mouth to speak, but Jake suddenly appeared at her side.

“Sir Jeffery! It’s an honor,” Jake said, his voice dripping with forced respect. “I never got the chance to thank you personally for the job offer.”

Anthony gave a short, cold nod, his eyes never leaving Anna.

“Meet my wife, Anna,” Jake said, pulling her forward with an oblivious smile.

Anthony’s gaze locked onto hers, dark and knowing. “So, Anna is your name.”

He reached into his pocket. Jake waited for a handshake, but Anthony simply opened his palm to reveal a gold wedding ring.

“You dropped this last night,” Anthony murmured, his voice dangerously smooth. Anna’s breath escaped in a sharp gasp, her eyes wide with terror.