Chapter 5

When I woke up again, the smell of disinfectant filled the air around me.

William was sitting by the bed, holding my hand, with dark circles under his eyes.

"You only have yourself to blame," his voice was hoarse, "I just hoped you could get along with her."

He sighed, "Her father did me a huge favor. Now that he's gone, I have to take good care of her."

I pulled my hand back and turned to look out the window.

What about me?

When I was seventeen, I risked my life to save William from the black market. Didn't that count as a favor to him?

Only now did I understand that I was just a chess piece he used to save his family's finances.

In his heart, money, Karen, his family... so many things mattered more than me.

He was the one who said he didn't care about my background or my past.

He brought me to the other side of the world. Gunshots, the smell of blood, the clubs and bullets that could fall at any moment—all of that disappeared from my life. I had a life of luxury and stability, with William's constant care and protection.

Turns out it was all fake, just an act.

"William, let's get a divorce," I said slowly.

"What are you making a fuss about..." his tone became urgent. Seeing my determined expression, he sighed and softened his voice.

"Stop being angry, okay? I promise to give you an unforgettable anniversary. I've invited many celebrities. Remember Mr. Smith? He's coming too."

At this, I laughed.

Mr. Smith?

Mr. Smith again.

So even our anniversary was just another part of his performance.

I shook off his hand, hoping Mark would come take me away soon.

Just then, the hospital room door opened, and the doctor walked in looking worried. "I'm sorry..."

The next second, William's phone suddenly rang.

I glanced at the screen. It was Karen.

After listening for just two seconds, he jumped up, his face changing dramatically. "I'll be right there!"

He didn't even look at me again before rushing out of the room.

Even with me lying in a hospital bed, Karen would always matter more than me.

The doctor shook his head and handed me the test results. "I'm very sorry, we couldn't save your baby..."