The Other Side of Reality

In reality, Marcus was just stringing Jessica along. After all, she was just an ordinary soldier at the time. Instead, he was holding out for someone he considered more impressive.I visited the college to inquire about the necessary preparations required for enrollment, as well as living expenses. Only after I had all the details straight did I feel reassured enough to head back.When I returned to Jessica's military housing and walked through the door, I heard Marcus whisper, "Jess, you rushed back to be with me instead of accompanying Zach. Won't he be upset?""I can spend time with him anytime," she replied. "But you're unwell, and I don't feel comfortable leaving you alone at home."He chuckled, his voice dropping into a teasingly forlorn tone. "Will you still treat me well after you marry him?""Of course," Jessica replied firmly. "Who else would I be nice to if not you? If Zachary mistreats you, I'll divorce him."My fists clenched tightly as I fought to swallow the bitter

"Let's go take the photos first. I'll go with you to buy whatever you need afterward," Jessica said firmly, as if giving me no room for refusal.Marcus chimed in, "Yeah, Zach. You're not refusing to go because of me, are you?"At that point, I didn't feel like arguing and just nodded in agreement.Early the following morning, I could hear Jessica fussing in Marcus' room, coaxing him out of bed. The bright red numbers on the calendar reminded me that my freedom was just four days away.Just as my patience was wearing thin, they finally dragged their feet out of the room.Jessica diligently fetched hot water and personally washed Marcus' face. I must have been blind in my past life to naively think that once we were married, she'd treat me the same way.I was lost in thought when Jessica shyly walked over to me, holding a ring. "Mrs. Wilson said couples these days wear wedding rings, so I got you one."I didn't take it when I recalled there had been no rings in my past life.As

The air in Humridge was humid and warm.I stood in front of the college, and it felt surreal. While walking around the campus, it felt like I'd been given a second chance at life.During the day, I sat in lecture halls, listening attentively and soaking up knowledge. At night, I worked at a small diner, carrying trays and washing dishes. My back was sore by the end of every shift, but this kind of fatigue made me feel grounded.After one month, I gradually adapted to this busy but fulfilling life.One day, I found Jessica standing outside my dorm."Zachary, why are you doing this? Why did you write Marcus' name on the marriage application? And why didn't you go to Lisbeth?" Her voice was filled with anger and confusion.I met her gaze coldly. "I don't want a wife whose heart belongs to someone else. It's disgusting and makes me sick."Jessica stared at me in disbelief. "How can you say that? You weren't like this before."I turned my head away as a wave of nausea churned in my

When winter break arrived, Margaret wouldn't stop calling. She kept urging me to come home for the holidays.The Carters had raised me, and I couldn't be too heartless. After much deliberation, I still bought a train ticket and returned to Montevale with bags full of gifts.The moment I stepped through the Carter residence's front door, a sharp, angry voice rang out."Jessica, what is your problem? Don't forget, you're my wife now."Hearing that, I was stunned. I saw Marcus sitting there, yelling at Jessica. Her face was pale, but she didn't dare argue."I want that watch, and you're going to buy it for me right now!" he shouted.She said tentatively, "I'll get it for you next time, okay? I've already used up this month's allowance.""You're useless. No wonder you're still stuck as a captain. You're not giving your money to Zach, are you?" he retorted.Jessica's expression shifted. "Marcus, don't talk nonsense. I cut things off with him long ago.""Cut things off? Do you take

That evening, we sat around the dining table, enjoying a steaming hot roasted turkey dinner. Dorothy kept loading my plate with food."Zachary, you should come visit more often. You're always welcome here," she said.I smiled and nodded, feeling a comforting warmth in my chest.After dinner, Melissa suggested we take a walk in the nearby park. The winter park was mostly empty, except for a few couples nestled together, enjoying the rare tranquility.We strolled along the lake in silence. Snowflakes drifted down like a thin veil, settling softly on our shoulders."Thank you, Melissa," I said, breaking the silence."What for?""For taking me in and giving me a warm place to stay," I replied.She looked at me with a teasing smile. "So, how about you repay me by giving yourself to me?"I froze for a moment, then huffed with mock indignation. "In your dreams!"Even as I said it, a small flutter stirred in my chest."Then tell me, how are you going to repay me? I'm the hero who re