His Knees, His Pleas, But Our Son's in Peace

19 19

His voice was serious, almost pleading. He looked at me as though searching for some hint of joy or excitement, waiting for a reaction that wasn't coming.This is property © of NôvelDrama.Org.

But as much as those words once meant everything to me, now they were hollow. Once, I had dreamt of this moment-of the day he would introduce me to the world as his wife, of wearing a beautiful wedding dress just for him. But that was a long time ago. I pulled my hand away from his grasp, a coldness in my voice. "Please, Nathan, behave yourself. We have nothing to do with each other now. Nathan's face twisted in pain, his expression bordering on

desperation. "Doris, don't be angry, okay?" He leaned in, his voice soft and coaxing. "I'm here. If you don't come to me, who else could you possibly go to?"

Before I could respond, a wealthy businessman approached us, holding up his glass to toast. "Mr. Johnson, who is this lovely lady?" he asked, looking between us with curiosity.

Without missing a beat, Nathan wrapped his arm around my waist, pulling me close as he said, "This is my wife, Doris."

I stiffened instantly, pushing him away. "Sorry," I said curtly, turning

to the businessman. "I'm not."

14:57

His Knees, His Pleas, But Our Son's in Peace

69.206

Nathan chuckled lightly, as if I had just made a joke. "Oh, this little girl, always playing games with me."

The businessman raised his eyebrows in surprise, glancing at me before turning back to Nathan. "Well, I never thought I'd see the day someone could toy with your temper, Mr. Johnson. Seems you really do spoil her."

Nathan shot me a knowing look, his voice smooth and calm. "Of course. She, and she alone, is my wife."

I felt my stomach churn as the businessman walked away, and I turned to Nathan with a hard expression. "Do you think this is funny?" Lasked, my voice tight with frustration. "Nathan, we're divorced. I'm

not your wife. Don't say that again."

Nathan stepped closer, his hand reaching for mine again. "No, Doris," he said firmly, his grip tightening. "From this day forward, I will never let go of you again. Never."

I yanked my hand out of his grip, exasperation rising within me. I had no energy left to argue with him. But Nathan-relentless as ever-began following me around the room. Each time I tried to talk to someone, to make my own connections, he was right there beside me, his presence overshadowing my attempts to assert myself as an independent businesswoman. All anyone could see was Mrs. Johnson.

It was exhausting, and I could feel my patience wearing thin.

Just when I thought I couldn't handle another moment of his hovering, Reid appeared, calling Nathan away to deal with some

11-57

His Knees His Pleas But Our Son's in Peace

urgent matter.