Chapter 2

I waited in confusion, expecting Samuel to explain himself, but he simply smiled and said, "Darling, have you really forgotten the photo you took yourself?"

He ruffled my hair as if nothing had happened, then turned and stepped out to take the call.

I had been in a coma for three years, but I wasn't stupid.

I clearly remembered never taking such photos. Samuel was lying to me.

He came back soon after and said, "Something's come up at work. I need to head out. Don't wait up."

Without even looking at me, he grabbed his jacket and left.

The old Samuel used to say, "I only work to make you happier. What's the point of making money if I can't spend time with you?"

He never once stayed out late.

But over the next two days, he didn't come home at all.

Over those two days, my former mentor, who had always valued me, was thrilled to hear that I had woken up.

However, he remained concerned about my health and suggested that I travel to Merrington for further tests, where one of his most trusted former students was now working as a doctor.

I promised my mentor I would, but only after my parents held a homecoming party for me.

Just after I got home, Samuel, who had been gone for two days, was already getting ready to leave again.

When he saw me, he froze. "I heard you're going to Merrington."

There was no sign of surprise on his face—only shock.

"I came back to tell you and Mom and Dad—"

Before I could finish, he cut me off impatiently, "Yeah, work's calling. I have to go."

He rushed out the door, and I didn't press him further. However, my doubts grew heavier. Was he really that busy?

I followed him, and that was when I saw the happy family scene I had just described.

I lifted my numb fingers and hit record, capturing the entire scene in front of me.

When I returned home, I locked myself in my room and played the video on repeat.

While I lay unconscious, someone else had quietly taken my place.

What was the point of waking up at all?

Not long after, the sound of the front door opening echoed through the house.

Samuel rushed in with a smile. "On my way back, I saw that ravioli place you like had reopened, so I grabbed your favorite with the shrimp filling."

He pulled me into his arms, but the strong scent of perfume clinging to him made my stomach churn.

I pushed him away and managed a strained smile. "I'm allergic to shrimp. Have you forgotten?"

He froze.

As I looked at him, my heart gave a painful jolt, and silent tears began to fall.

At that moment, I knew someone else had taken my place. Even my husband's memories of me had been quietly overwritten.

Before Samuel could say a word, Mom interrupted, "Why are you still standing here? The homecoming party is about to start. We need to get going."

She walked toward me with a gown in her hands. "Here, try this on. I had it custom-made just for you. It'll fit you perfectly."

I looked up, and a chill shot down my spine.

I had seen Jessica wearing the same dress before.

I clenched my fists and asked, "Mom, are you sure this dress is for me?"

She nodded, smiling as she gently pushed me toward the dressing room.

I let out a bitter smile as I stepped out, still tugging at the zipper that refused to close.

"You've gained so much weight," Samuel remarked with a frown.

I said nothing. I simply looked at my mother.

Only then did she seem to realize I was much taller than Jessica.

An awkward expression crossed her face, and she quickly instructed someone to bring another dress.

"Oh dear, I completely forgot your measurements. I'll make sure someone picks out more clothes for you tomorrow to make it up to you. You're becoming more and more beautiful every day," she said, wrapping her arms around me.

Mom's eyes brimmed with affection, but I quietly pulled my hand away.

I couldn't help but question whether it was truly me she loved, or the woman who had taken my place.