chapter 4

I asked, "What do you even like about her?

"Let me guess—you like her carefree, clueless attitude? Or those sleek, leopard-like muscles?

"Or..."

I paused deliberately, and then I continued, "You like that she ranks beneath you, so you can feel that tiny shred of pathetic pride only when you're with her?"

"Mia!" Adrian grabbed my neck in rage, trying to stop me. His eyes looked messy and wild. "Don't think just because your family gave me a job, I'm gonna be grateful. Screw that—I don't need it!"

I pushed his hand away, my laugh sharp and cold. "Then quit."

His tone flickered. "Why should I quit? Don't forget, Mia, I have shares in the Clark Group. Who are you to kick me out?

"Quit pouting. Tomorrow I'll take you to pick a new ring—limited edition, your pick."

At that moment, I didn't even have the strength to argue.

Late at night, curled up in pain, I whispered Adrian's name, hoping he'd get me some water.

Right outside the bedroom, it was silent, the only light spilling from the crack of the study door.

I walked over barefoot and heard soft humming from inside.

During my worst nightmares, he never sang to me.

Now, through a mic, he was gently singing to another woman.

"Hungry?" His voice carried a patience I hadn't heard in ages. "I'll buy you some porridge and bring it over."

Through the headset came Emma's sleepy tease, "Screw that. Only counts if you make it yourself."

"Fine. What do you want? A sandwich or soup?" he said.

In that moment, the pain in my lower belly suddenly didn't even matter.

At dawn, Adrian finally returned, kicking my blanket aside. "Get up. We're going to pick the ring. I never forget a promise.

"Come on, baby, don't be mad, okay?"

I swallowed the tightness in my chest and followed him out.

As I opened the car door, the passenger seat was stacked with girl stuff.

Emma's workout shorts were casually draped over the seatback, her sunscreen bottle rolled onto the floor mat.

Even her track-and-field gold medal hung from the rearview.

Adrian hurriedly tossed the stuff into the backseat, his tone awkward. "Yesterday I swung by Emma's on the way home. She's always so scatterbrained."

I silently stared at the lucky charm hanging from the window—it was also handmade by Emma last year.

At the mall, I casually pointed to a diamond ring.

Adrian quickly told the clerk, "Wrap it up, I'll pay."

Then Emma's cheerful voice came from behind. "Such a pretty necklace! Totally suits my style."

Adrian turned to see her; his eyes softened instantly. "The sun must've risen in the west—since when do you like girly stuff?"

Emma twirled playfully and said, "What, got a problem with it? Just tell me yes or no. Or my little fists will punch your chest!"

"Ugh, fine, I'll buy it. Happy now?" Adrian replied.