22

In the bathroom, Veronica shook her head as she looked at her own body in the rather large mirror inside the shower. There were many marks left by Frans, but Veronica could breathe a sigh of relief because those marks were in places covered by clothing.

After finishing her shower ritual, Veronica quickly left the bathroom, wearing just a bathrobe. As she stepped out, the first thing she saw was Frans packing some clothes into a small suitcase that he had brought yesterday.

Veronica approached and touched Frans' hand. "Hubby, are you leaving tonight too?" she asked with a forlorn expression.

"Yes, dear. I'm sorry," Frans replied gently.

"It's okay. The sooner Hubby leaves, the sooner Hubby will come back, right?" Veronica said, hiding her own sadness. If she could be honest, she didn't want Frans to leave.

"Thank you, yes, you always understand my situation." Frans stroked Veronica's cheek gently, "Then, I'll prepare first." Rubbed the top of Veronica's head and went into the bathroom