My Husband Postponed Our Wedding Nineteen Times for His Mistress

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When I was twelve weeks pregnant, Clayton Briggs ruined our wedding eighteen times in a row because of his cousin.

The first time, he claimed his cousin had just arrived from the countryside and didnt know the way, so he needed to go get her. I stood there in my bridal gown and said sorry to all the guests in the hall for him.

The second time, the wedding song was only halfway through when he answered a call from his cousin claiming her heart felt uncomfortable. He walked out without even looking at me.

The nineteenth time, we finally reached the part where we were about to exchange rings.

However, in the dressing room, I caught sight of him and his cousin fully undressed, locked together, and gasping.

Celestine Grimes is just a means to give you a child.

After the baby is born, Ill abandon her and marry you properly with a lavish style.

On what should have been the happiest day, I plainly heard about this ten-year scam!

So the love and care Clayton had shown me during those ten years were only because Verity Tanners heart illness stopped her from bearing children!

I stumbled away from the wedding venue and called my father.

Dad, Im not getting married anymore. I want to keep the baby and remove the father.

Dad, Im not getting married anymore. I want to keep the child and remove the father.

I spoke through tears.

On the other end of the line, my father scolded me, You persisted all the way to the nineteenth wedding, and only now you decide to keep the child and remove the father?

I leaned against the hotel hallway wall, yet no sound came from my throat.

Dad understood that for the sake of his cousin, Clayton had already left me, three months pregnant, alone at the wedding venue eighteen times.

The first occasion, he claimed Verity had come from the countryside and was unfamiliar with the roads. A girl was pulling a suitcase and sobbing at the station, so he went to pick her up.

That day, dressed in my bridal gown, I stood in the hotel lobby, my makeup washed away by tears and redone, yet I still did not see him return.

The second time, halfway through the ceremony, Verity called, saying her heart felt uncomfortable and she was unable to breathe.

Without leaving any explanation, Clayton turned and departed. I had truly believed Veritys illness was serious and had worried about her for an entire day.

Afterward, over and over, Veritys heart discomfort, poor mood, and nightmares all served to call Clayton away from the wedding.

It was not that I had never wanted to make a fuss, but I endured everything.

Because Clayton had a kind of unquestioned right with me.

Ten years earlier, when my job stress suddenly intensified, I suffered abrupt memory loss.

Each morning when I awoke, my memory had been wiped clean. I did not know who I was, did not recognize my parents, and did not understand why the world functioned this way.

Even my own parents could not withstand it.

They stood beside my bed with eyes full of tears, watching me look at them repeatedly with unfamiliar eyes, and finally, they could only break down and turn away.

Only Clayton, who had been my boyfriend then, did not leave.

During that time, every morning when I opened my eyes, Clayton smiled and told me, Celestine, I am your husband.

Dont be afraid, Im here.

He patiently told me everyones names and explained my job and my habits.

He said he was my boyfriend and that he loved me deeply.

He stayed with me while I ate, walked, and went through rehabilitation, guiding me back into society again and again.

For a full twenty-one days, I fell in love with him repeatedly.

So afterward, regardless of what he did, I was willing to give him opportunities.

Clayton also seriously explained why Verity was in his life.

He said Veritys mother had died saving him back then; it was a lifelong debt he carried.

And Veritys heart was weak, and she was lonely and without support, so he could not turn his back on her.

I understood his situation, so I continued to endure.

But after it happened too many times, I was already drained, because I truly longed for our wedding, and anticipation fades after being broken again and again.

Even if I was slow to notice, I could see that Veritys feelings toward Clayton were not simple.

However, whenever I brought it up, Clayton strongly insisted they were impossible, only brother and sister.

He made vows in front of me and knelt down.

A man over 1.8 meters tall, eyes red, begging me not to walk away.

My heart weakened.

I intended to give him three final chances.

Twenty-one days of amnesia would cancel out twenty-one weddings.

I even reassured myself that it could not really be that exactly twenty-one weddings would all collapse, could it?

And the nineteenth wedding did start off surprisingly well.

But midway, when I went to the dressing room to retouch my makeup, I heard faint gasps from within. Verity spoke while crying.

Brother, I dont want you marrying someone else I know its wrong, yet I truly cant control my feelings.

I cant have children for you. These nineteen times, stopping your wedding happened because I was too greedy.

My eyes narrowed, and then I heard Claytons familiar voice.

Are you stupid? This has nothing to do with you. And why envy Celestine? Shes merely a tool to continue the bloodline. After the child is born, she wont matter. Ill leave her and marry you properly in a grand ceremony.

Verity gently asked, Do you love me then?

Clayton almost instantly responded, You are the person I love most. Apart from you, there is no other.

I stood beyond the door, my body overwhelmed by the shocking truth, not even daring to rush in and confront them.

As the sounds inside grew increasingly passionate, I could only press my hand over my stomach and flee in humiliation.

When my father saw how firm I was about divorcing, he finally agreed and arranged a lawyer for me as well, afraid I would be taken advantage of.

I turned and ran straight to the legal firm to draft the contract.

For once, Clayton stayed at the wedding, and I was the one who ran.

That night, when I arrived home, Clayton saw me and immediately questioned, Wife, where did you go? Why did you disappear halfway through the wedding?

I looked at his intentionally gentle expression. The love I had long grown used to and the strong hatred inside me clashed in my stomach, making me feel sick.

I forced myself to answer, My cousin was unwell. I went to see him.

Claytons expression immediately darkened.

Cousin? How could a cousin matter more than our wedding? H How could you cancel our ceremony over another person?

Hearing that, I found it laughable.

My cousin saved my life. He means a great deal to me. Cant I visit him?

At that moment, I was still hoping Clayton would get upset like the times I had been left behind before, expecting him to feel disappointed like a normal fianc when the wedding failed to happen.

But Clayton was only speechless for a second, then stepped forward and gently embraced me.

Let it go. Since thats the reason, well hold it again next week, alright? Wife, Ill prepare an even grander wedding for you next time.

I shut my eyes in hopelessness, surprisingly not shocked by his response at all.

Clayton had always acted like this; he never showed anger or blame toward me, always kind and thoughtful.

I once thought it meant he loved me; only now did I understand it meant he did not love me.

Only toward someone not loved could a person hide so flawlessly.

With the one truly loved, all kinds of feelings would surface instead.

I weakly pushed him aside and passed him the simply concealed paper in my hand.

Today I discovered there is a house in the dowry that hasnt been settled yet. It needs your signature.

At that moment, I imagined countless scenes of how I would argue with him if Clayton realized it was a divorce contract.

But Clayton did not even glance at it and casually wrote his name, then said, Oh, right, Veritys heart condition isnt good. She lives alone outside, Im not very reassured.

Can she stay at our place for a while? Shes in the attic now and wont disturb us.

My hand remained on the divorce agreement, my fingertips cold. For a brief moment, I could not even respond to what I had heard.

What did you say?

Clayton frowned, as if thinking I was making too much of it.

Dont worry, wife. I already asked someone to clean it up. The attic is quiet and bright, good for Verity to recover. She wont disturb us, shell stay a few days and then leave.

In that instant, it felt as though a bucket of cold water had been poured over me from head to toe.

The attic was where Clayton had proposed to me.

It held a unique meaning for us; we used to spend time there talking and dating in the attic.

I bit down hard on the inside of my mouth. The noises from the dressing room earlier still seemed to ring in my ears. My chest tightened again and again, and even breathing felt hard.

I stared at Clayton, my voice hoarse. Havent you already made up your mind? She has already moved in. Why are you asking me now?

As soon as the sentence ended, he suddenly reached out and held my hand.

Wife, dont put it that way.

Claytons brows drew together slightly, as if he had been wrongly accused. I brought Verity home today because her heart problem suddenly worsened. It wasnt safe outside, and I had no time to inform you beforehand.

But if you dont want her to live here, Ill send her away right away.

Claytons words were calm and thoughtful.

As though, at that moment, all authority to decide had seriously been handed to me.

Yet my heart abruptly grew cold.

After knowing the truth, the reason that had once disappeared because of blind love returned.

I understood that if I shook my head now, if I simply said I was unwilling, tomorrow, every relative and friend would know that I had treated my fiancs ill cousin cruelly, that I was petty, harsh, and jealous.

I hadnt understood it before.

On the evening of the thirteenth ruined wedding, he had also held my hand like this, lifting me to a higher position and giving me the power to decide.

I had been upset and refused to let him go to Verity, and Clayton had quickly agreed.

On the second day, the company circulated a rumor that I was jealous, that I could not even endure my fiancs cousin.

At that time, I sat at my workstation every day feeling restless and uneasy.

In the end, Clayton rose and explained before everyone, saying I was not that type of person, that I had never been unable to accept the cousin, that they had misunderstood me.

In private, he comforted me repeatedly, telling me not to dwell on it, saying it was only a misunderstanding.

At that moment, I was deeply touched.

I even felt guilty for misjudging his relationship with Verity.

Only now did I see that perhaps the entire situation had been arranged by him from beginning to end.

So that later I would never again dare to reject his closeness with Verity.

For Verity, Clayton truly gave everything he had.

Thinking of this, my eyes grew warm instantly, yet my heart hurt with emptiness.

Do as you please, I said in a tone of surrender.

No matter whether I agreed or not, she had already settled into the attic and already tainted that place.

In a few days, I would leave this house, so whoever stayed here would no longer concern me.

Clayton clearly breathed out in relief.

Wife, youre truly kind.

I knew you would understand me.

I lowered my gaze to the divorce papers on the table, my heart aching.

Twenty-one days of memory clearing.

Nineteen ruined weddings.

I would count the debt as repaid nineteen times.

Clayton.

There were still two times remaining.

Once I returned your favor fully, we would owe each other nothing and have no further ties.

I placed the agreement into my bag, turned, returned to the room, locked the door, and sent the electronic copy I had already prepared to the lawyer.

The lawyer sent a message. [In about seven days, the process will be finished.]

I looked at that sentence for a long while, my heart still tightening.

I blinked hard, holding back the tears.

At night, I lay on the bed, yet I could not shut my eyes.

From upstairs came sounds that could not be overlooked.

Throughout the entire night, Clayton hardly rested properly.

Either Verity claimed she was hungry, or said she was thirsty, or mentioned that her chest felt slightly uncomfortable; excuses came one after another.

Time and again, I heard him rise from the bed, and time and again, his steps moved toward the attic.

In the past, I had always thought Clayton was already attentive enough to me.

When I craved something to eat at midnight, he would put on his coat and head downstairs. Even if he had to travel across half the city, he would return with the snack I wanted.

But when Verity said she was hungry, Clayton immediately went into the kitchen.

You shouldnt eat outside food right now. Ill prepare something light for you. Outside food isnt healthy.

Before, when I accidentally hurt my foot, Clayton would calmly soothe me and examine the injury.

However, when Verity knocked her foot, Clayton directly carried her to the couch, carefully rubbed ointment on her, and, because she was scared of pain, he gently coaxed her while doing it.

I lay in bed, my palm tightly covering my stomach, my chest feeling heavy.

So the gap between being loved and not being loved was this clear.

It was very late before Clayton returned to the room.

The mattress sank, and he reached out to draw me into his arms.

Verity is very sensitive. Its her first time living in someone elses home, so she isnt quite comfortable. Wife, dont be angry with her.

I stayed silent and only turned away.

Clayton bent his head and placed his hand over my belly, his tone gentle.

Wife, are you feeling jealous? Dont be mad. Im simply caring for my younger sister. Being angry isnt good for the baby in your belly.

Verity even prepared a small gold lock for the child. She said she wishes the baby to arrive safely. Shes from the countryside and doesnt earn much; she saved for a long time to buy that gold lock.

She also wanted to apologize to you, saying she had troubled you for a long time.

Clayton spoke with such honesty.

If I had not discovered them cheating today, I might truly have believed Verity was sincere, and I might even have felt glad that the child would have another aunt who cared for her.

I abruptly pushed him away and said in a cold voice, I dont want anything from her.

Clayton was surprised.

Celestine

My child.

I stared at him and said slowly, I will provide her with the best myself.

Just as Clayton was about to pull me into his arms and continue speaking, Veritys restrained sobbing suddenly came from the attic.

Brother Im a little afraid

Claytons face changed instantly. He shoved me aside and rushed out while shouting upstairs, Dont be scared, brother is here!

With a loud sound, I lost my footing from the push, and my back hit the headboard heavily, the pain darkening my sight.

I gripped my stomach, panting heavily. At that instant, I could not decide whether my body ached more or my heart suffered more.

Early the following morning, I saw Clayton wearing an apron in front of the stove, his actions smooth and patient. Verity looked up at him with gentle brows, carefully dabbing away his sweat.

If strangers had seen this moment, they would think they were the true family, and I was simply an extra presence.

I held back the urge to vomit and walked over to take a seat.

When Clayton noticed me, he spoke softly, Wife, youre awake? I made seafood. Its your favorite shrimp and grits. Try some.

I lowered my gaze to the shrimp and grits inside the bowl, my mind slightly blank.

I clearly remembered that before Clayton and I officially got together, because my stomach was weak, he cooked shrimp and grits for me daily. At that time, I often skipped meals due to work, and he was the one who watched over me and would not let me go hungry.

Was that tenderness only a performance?

Were those ten years of love only an act?

While my mind was still in a mess, Verity took the lead to ladle a bowl of shrimp and grits for me and carefully passed it over.

Sister-in-law, thank you for allowing me to stay here. Last night, I truly caused trouble for my brother. He kept looking after me, and youre pregnant, yet had to sleep alone. I feel very sorry about that.

My heart tightened, and the small warmth that had risen because of the shrimp and grits faded instantly.

Every sentence Verity spoke sounded apologetic, yet each word seemed to purposely remind me that last night Clayton chose her over me.

I did not want to answer her.

Yet suddenly her wrist tipped, and the whole bowl of steaming shrimp and grits in her hand spilled in my direction.

I backed away in panic and watched helplessly as the hot porridge scattered over the table and onto the floor.

She cried out as if startled and stumbled backward.

Immediately, Clayton had already hurried over and pulled her close.

Verity, did you get burned?

His voice was clearly anxious as he lowered his head and repeatedly examined her hands.

And I, the pregnant woman who should have received more care, did not even get a single glance from him.

My heart dropped.

Veritys eyes quickly turned red, her voice shaking.

Im alright brother, if sister-in-law is unhappy, I can leave dont waste the shrimp and grits you made yourself.

She glanced at me timidly, as if afraid I would create a scene.

Before I could speak, Clayton had already knitted his brows.

Celestine.

His voice held restrained anger and blame. No matter how upset you are or how much you dislike Verity, you shouldnt bully her like this.

My eyes widened, staring at him in shock, yet Clayton kept accusing me.

The shrimp and grits are so hot. What if it had splashed on Veritys hand and left a scar? Youre pregnant, so I tolerate you in everything, but that doesnt give you the right to treat Verity this way.

Suppressing the pain in my chest, I gritted my teeth and answered, What nonsense is that? I never did such a thing. I would never stoop to that kind of behavior to bully someone!

As soon as I finished speaking, Verity quickly shook her head and spoke up for me.

It wasnt sister-in-law. My hand slipped, and I didnt hold the bowl firmly, so it spilled. Its my fault.

She stepped forward to take the blame, yet I felt disgusted, as though I had eaten something dirty. I had not done it at all, but after she spoke, it sounded as though she had endured all the injustice.

Claytons expression darkened.

Celestine, are you still trying to put the blame on Verity? She is sensible enough to take responsibility for you, but as her sister-in-law, you shouldnt treat a patient this way!

I could not believe he would speak to me that way. A bitter taste rose in my throat, and I was unable to reply for a moment.

In Claytons eyes, had I already become the type who would set others up?

Clayton, you dont trust me?

I heard myself ask with difficulty, word by word.

Its not that I dont trust you.

Claytons voice lowered. Its just that I clearly know what kind of person Verity is.

What kind of person was Verity?

And what kind of person was I?

I laughed out of anger and raised my hand to point at the surveillance overhead.

Theres surveillance at home. If you want to see what really happened, you can check it right now!

The moment I spoke about the surveillance, my heart trembled.

Since I became pregnant, Clayton had been worried about leaving me alone, so he had installed surveillance in the living room, saying it would make me feel safer.

Now it had become the means for me to defend myself.

As Clayton was about to respond, Verity cried and interrupted.

Brother, sister-in-law, please stop fighting.

She wiped her eyes. Its my fault. I made my sister-in-law misunderstand. Brother, Im truly okay. Lets eat quickly, or the shrimp and grits will get cold.

Clayton exhaled slowly, seeming to regain control. He looked at me, his tone gentler.

Sorry, wife. I misunderstood you earlier. I was only panicked because I was worried.

I watched them perform together so smoothly, and a strong feeling of weakness filled my heart. Finally, I said in a flat tone, Whatever you want.

My strange reaction made Clayton hesitate. He reached over and caught my hand, trying to comfort me.

Wife, didnt we plan to visit the mall today to buy things for the baby? Ill go with you.

I almost refused right away.

But the words stopped at my mouth and went back down.

The divorce papers were not yet officially effective. I could not break things openly with Clayton at this moment.

And I worried that if he found out about the divorce, he would fight me over the child. It was better to be careful.

So I nodded.

Still, a thought remained in my heart that I did not want to face.

Maybe Clayton did not love me.

But he loved the baby.

If it were possible, I still wished that after the child was born, there would be complete love from a father.

But when I finished preparing and stepped outside, I saw Verity also standing by the door.

Before I could say anything, Clayton had already explained, I was worried Verity would feel bored staying home alone, so I brought her with us.

I did not respond and simply opened the door and walked out.

Behind me, Clayton seemed unused to my reaction.

The former me, even when upset or jealous, would pull him aside to talk things through, or act soft and seek his comfort.

I had never treated him as invisible like this.

Clayton looked at my back and lightly shook his head.

He only assumed I was unusually angry this time.

As he followed, he was already thinking about what presents to buy later.

After all, I had loved him deeply; if he comforted me a little, I would give in again.

At the mall, the mood between us at first could still be called peaceful.

Clayton pushed the shopping cart, lowered his head, and carefully checked the fabric of the baby clothes on the shelves. His fingers touched each piece as he asked whether this material might irritate the skin or whether that color was too dark.

He selected everything with great care, not even glancing at the price tags. Toys, feeding bottles, tiny socks, he placed them into the cart one by one, choosing only the best.

Along the way, he barely noticed Verity, fully showing an attitude of trying to make things up to me.

This was a picture I had once dreamed of many times, yet now it felt like ginger mixed into a meatball, hard to swallow.

Yet I still could not help believing that even if Clayton had wronged me and neglected this marriage, he at least sincerely expected this child and would be a responsible father.

After all, in these ten years, I had also seen that Clayton was very capable of caring for others.

Just then, the familiar and embarrassing need to use the restroom during pregnancy came again.

I told Clayton I was heading to the restroom and asked him to go to the jewelry shop to pick up the custom safety lock prepared for the baby.

Clayton agreed with a smile.

But when I left the restroom and walked toward the gold shop, I saw a scene that hurt my eyes.

Standing before the gold shop counter, just below Veritys collarbone, hung a familiar item.

It was the safety lock I had personally selected the design for, adjusted the size for, and waited half a month to have crafted for the baby.

Blood rushed to my head, and my stomach rolled violently.

I nearly ran forward to snatch the safety lock back.

Before I could reach the lock, someone grabbed my wrist hard. I lost my balance and stumbled back a step.

Clayton stood in front of me, his brows drawn tight. Wife, what are you doing?

I stared at him, my voice shaking. Clayton, I should be asking you that. Why did you give the safety lock I prepared for the baby to Verity?

Verity seemed shocked and leaned closer into Claytons arms, but her fingers clutched the lock tightly, her eyes reddening instantly.

She spoke in a soft and gentle tone. Sister-in-law, please dont be angry. Ive never had a safety lock before. Earlier, my chest felt a little uncomfortable. After wearing it, I suddenly felt better. Maybe this lock and I are meant to be.

If you mind, I can pay for it. Please let me keep this lock, alright?

I looked at the lock on her chest and coldly laughed. This was prepared for my child, not something for you to use to treat illness!

Clayton softened his voice and told me, Wife, alright, dont cause a scene. Ill buy you an even better one, okay? Let Verity have this one. Its rare to have such a fate.

I looked up at him and suddenly felt that the man before me was like a stranger.

Fate? Does it have fate just because you say it does?

I questioned him, word by word. This belongs to my child. She isnt qualified to take it!

I shook off Claytons hand and reached toward the red cord to untie it.

Before my fingers could touch it, Verity suddenly clutched her chest. Her face grew white, and her body seemed unable to support itself as she slid down.

Brother she said weakly, tears dropping immediately, my heart feels very uncomfortable.

Clayton almost instinctively caught her in his arms, his face changing sharply, his voice anxious. Dont speak. Ill take you to the hospital!

I remained where I was, watching him carry her away, my heart feeling tightly squeezed by something invisible.

Stop.

I said it, but my voice trembled beyond control.

Clayton turned around, impatience and anger written across his face.

What more do you want? Verity is already having an episode, and youre still standing here arguing out of jealousy for what? Do you realize you look like a mad, jealous woman right now? Celestine, when did you become like this?

You used to be thoughtful and fair!

Jealous woman?

I stared at the man before me with deep disappointment, but inside I was strangely calm, no longer controlled by him.

I inhaled deeply, my nails digging into my skin. If you want to leave, then go. Give back the safety lock.

His expression went completely cold. Celestine, youve gone too far. Cant you even let go of such a small item? Shes having a heart attack, and youre still arguing over this. How can you be so heartless?

Youre being completely unreasonable!

The baby had not even been born, yet Clayton was already able to hand over the babys belongings to Verity just because she felt unwell.

Then, after the child was born?

If Verity felt upset, would the child be beaten and scolded as she pleased?

That thought made my entire body go cold.

I did not move forward to stop him again and slowly released my grip.

At that moment, I completely made my decision.

Clayton was no longer qualified to have any connection with my child.

After I left, I would cut all ties with Clayton and find a new father for the baby, so she could receive full fatherly love, but it would not be Clayton.

Claytons steps slowed, and for no clear reason, unease crossed his heart. His grip on Verity tightened, and he hesitated slightly.

As he was about to speak, Verity softly called out to him, her tone weak and relying on him.

He immediately regained his focus and walked away faster.

I saw Clayton lift Verity and walk away into the crowd. I breathed in deeply and, holding my belly, was ready to head back to pack my things and get ready to go.

But right when I turned around, a loud alarm suddenly echoed from above the shopping center, and right after that came many sharp cries.

Fire!

Run! There is a fire!

The calm mall quickly turned into a mess.

Heavy smoke quickly spread from an unknown place, the strong smell of something burning rushed toward us, and the people, like frightened animals, wildly pushed toward the exits.

Without thinking, I covered my belly, my heart jumping up into my throat.

I noticed Clayton not far away, his expression suddenly changing. Almost by instinct, he pulled Verity tightly into his arms, one hand shielding the back of her head, the other forcing a path through the crowd as he pulled her toward the closest exit.

At such a risky time, as his wife, he did not even look back at me once.

I was pushed by the crowd until I could barely keep my balance. My back hit hard against the rail, and a tight, dropping pain in my stomach instantly made my face go pale.

Move aside

My voice shook. I am pregnant

But nobody was able to catch my words.

Right when I was close to falling, Clayton suddenly looked back and noticed me.

Our eyes met for a short second in the chaos.

At a time between living and dying, people were weak. I formed a foolish hope, hoping Clayton would pull me to safety.

But in the very next moment, Clayton strongly shoved my heavy body ahead.

Go ahead, do not block the path!

His voice sounded rushed. Wife, let me bring Verity outside first; her body cannot hold on. Any compensation you ask for, I will hand it to you later!

I was roughly pushed ahead by the crowd, my body losing control, my belly hard hitting the line of people in front.

Severe pain burst out from my lower belly.

Sadness, hurt, anger, breakdown many mixed feelings rushed hard through my chest.

I truly wanted to question Clayton if he even had a heart at all?!

Clayton held her close, almost using his own body to take every hit for her.

His choice was already very clear. What else could I still hope for?

As my awareness slowly grew unclear, I suddenly thought of many past events.

Five years earlier, I suddenly got a very high fever and was taken to the hospital, needing a blood transfusion.

I lay on the hospital bed, burning up and not fully awake. The doctor said my blood type was rare, and matching blood could not be found at that time.

I was extremely scared, gripping Claytons hand and shaking without stopping.

But he did not even crease his brows, simply pushing up his sleeve and telling the doctor, Use mine.

When the needle went into his arm, his face clearly paled, yet he still bent down near me and gently spoke to calm me.

Wife, do not worry. I am here.

Back then, I truly believed he would forever shield me in this way.

But now?

Ten years of love, all the time together, and the promises, in the fire and heavy smoke, were burned clean.

No, or maybe from the start, it was only my own wishful thinking.

The rescue personnel finally arrived, and the people were forced to evacuate.

I was no longer able to endure. My entire body dropped onto the floor, the ache in my belly feeling like it would tear me open.

The last image that stayed in my sight was Clayton lifting Verity and taking her out of the mall.

She only had small scratches, yet he looked so worried as if he had lost everything.

He gently set her onto the stretcher, again and again asking if she felt unwell, until the doctor nodded and said she was alright. Only then did he seem to lose all power and sway a little.

At that moment, somebody finally saw that his lower back had been burned by the fire, his clothes ripped, and his skin red and torn.

Even like that, he still would not let go of Veritys hand.

I lay on the ground, my eyes hurting, feeling only bitterness. I slowly closed my eyes and, in my heart, took away one of the last two so-called life-saving chances.

When I woke up again, my nose was filled with the scent of disinfectant.

My whole body felt like it had been pulled apart and put back together; every part was so heavy it did not seem like mine.

Later, I found out that when I was rushed into the emergency room, the babys condition was already very unstable. To keep the child safe, the doctor used the strongest method to protect the baby, and I lay passed out on the hospital bed for three whole days.

On the night of the third day, while I was half asleep and half awake, I suddenly felt someone tightly gripping my hand.

The hold was very tight, as if scared that once it let go, I would vanish.

I forced myself to open my eyes. My sight stayed unclear for a long time before slowly becoming clear.

It was Clayton.

He sat beside the bed, his hair in a mess, light beard growing on his chin, eyes red, lips moving again and again as he softly said, Wife, you have to wake up please open your eyes

If I had gone through nothing, maybe I truly would have been fooled by the way he looked.

The doctor quickly walked in to examine my state and informed him that both the parent and the baby were safe, and I was out of danger.

It was like someone suddenly let go of the tight string inside him. His entire body clearly loosened, his eyes at once turning red for no clear reason, almost speaking unclearly as he held the physician to show thanks.

Thank you, truly thank you

As long as she is alright, any sum of money is acceptable

I rested on the clinic bed, hearing all this, feeling nothing but something ridiculous.

If someone did not know the facts, they might truly believe he had risked himself in the fire to shield the baby and me.

But in my thoughts, without control, the scene played over and over, him carrying Verity in the shopping center, not even giving me one look back.

I suddenly pulled my hand away.

Clayton clearly froze for a second, then at once bent closer, his voice turning careful.

Celestine, you are awake? Do you feel any discomfort? The doctor said you must not become too emotional now. Do not move.

While speaking, his eyes became red again.

You have no idea how afraid I have been these few days. If anything had happened to you and the baby, I truly would not know how to continue living by myself.

Seeing his pretended concern, I felt nothing but disgust.

The nurse came to take out my needle. While doing it, she smiled and said, Your husband hasnt properly rested these days. Hes been watching over you the whole time. Youre really blessed.

I turned my head aside without answering.

After everything was over, what meaning was there in playing the loving husband?

When life and death were truly on the line, he had already shown his real decision.

Clayton seemed about to speak again, but the ward door was suddenly pushed open.

Verity rushed inside.

Her face was pale, her eyes red. As soon as she entered, she cried so hard she could barely stand. Breaking away from Claytons attempt to stop her, she dropped to her knees beside my hospital bed.

Sister-in-law, Im sorry. This is all because of me

If my heart hadnt suddenly felt unwell, Clayton wouldnt have focused only on me at the fire scene and nearly caused you and the baby to be in danger

She cried until she was out of breath, her voice broken and barely complete.

I truly didnt expect things to become like this I really blame myself

Clayton looked extremely worried and quickly moved to help her up, his voice anxious. Dont do this, stand up quickly. The doctor said you cant be emotionally upset.

He turned toward me, his tone clearly urging. Celestine, say something now. Dont let Verity kneel. She didnt mean it. Her heart condition isnt good; it wasnt intentional.

I looked at them, feeling only a sharp throbbing at my temples.

If you want to perform, go outside and do it.

I said coldly, I dont have time to watch.

Veritys face froze immediately.

Claytons expression darkened. Celestine, why do you talk like that? She came sincerely to apologize. She just hopes to have a good relationship with you. Why are you always so harsh and sarcastic?

I shut my eyes and took a deep breath, my hand unconsciously covering my lower belly.

It still hurts faintly.

Clayton, if that day the baby and I had truly died in the fire, would you have regretted for even a second not saving me?

The ward became silent.

He parted his lips but did not answer right away.

That single moment of hesitation had answered everything.

Verity sobbed softly at the side. Sister-in-law, dont put brother in that position. He feels awful too

I had already heard enough.

I leaned on the bed to sit up, pressed the nurses call button, and said calmly, Please help me apply for a transfer to a VIP room.

If Clayton genuinely cared about me, he would not have neglected to arrange a VIP ward from the start.

In the past, whenever Verity was admitted for heart discomfort, he would immediately secure the finest ward and the best doctor for her.

I had just risen from the bed and reached the doorway when I was halted.

Verity moved to block me, her eyes reddened, and her voice lowered greatly.

Sister-in-law, what must I do for you to stop being angry?

I felt uneasy at once. Just as I was about to step around her, she leaned toward me and whispered into my ear, I really cant stand your arrogant expression.

My heart jolted, and I instinctively stepped back.

But it was too late.

She grabbed my wrist abruptly, then suddenly let go, her body leaning backward as she crashed heavily to the floor.

Ah!

Before I could even react, I saw a bright red stain quickly spreading beneath her.

That sight at once broke all my senses; a loud ringing filled my ears, and everything before my eyes shook.

And Clayton almost rushed forward and dragged Verity into his chest, his voice shaking, Verity? Verity, what happened to you?!

Veritys face was deathly pale as she softly leaned against him, tears dropping without stopping.

Brother, I am pregnant

Her voice was so soft it could hardly be heard. I planned to tell you after the baby became steady I am sorry, brother

She lifted her face to look at me, her eyes full of hurt and shock.

Sister-in-law, what did I do to upset you? Why did you shove me?

That patch of blood made my ears buzz, and my head turn; my mind became empty, and I did not speak back right away.

In the next second, Clayton had already lifted her and hurried outside.

Doctor! Doctor!

His voice had never sounded so panicked, much more real than when he had just been sitting by my bed.

Before stepping out, Clayton suddenly turned his head to look at me, his eyes terribly cold.

If anything happens to Verity and her baby.

He clenched his teeth while speaking, I will absolutely not let you off!

I stood still, my fists tight, as if I had been slapped hard several times.

The mistress was pregnant, yet Clayton felt no guilt and could still threaten me without mercy.

At that moment, the last bit of feeling in my heart broke completely.

Soon, the ward was empty except for me. I sat on the bed and numbly opened my phone to buy a plane ticket.

I had no more ties to this place or this house.

Just after I finished paying, the ward door was pushed open.

Claytons eyes were red, his face full of worry, the veins on his temples clear. He rushed over and seized my wrist.

Come with me. Immediately.

He dragged me so hard that I staggered, pain shooting through my wrist. I struggled at once.

What are you doing?

Verity has lost too much blood!

He almost shouted. Shes in serious danger. You have to give her a blood transfusion!

I froze for a moment and looked at his arm.

His sleeve was not fully down. On his skin was a fresh needle mark, with bruises around it.

He had already donated blood.

Are you insane?

My voice shook, not from fear but from shock. Clayton, Im pregnant! You want me to give blood to someone else?

At that moment, Claytons face turned hard.

Can your child compare to hers?

He could not hide his anger. Veritys health was already weak. If she loses this child, who knows if she can ever get pregnant again in her life!

Celestine, you almost destroyed a womans future. Now you wont even give a little blood to make up for it. How can you be so heartless?!

I trembled in anger, almost ready to pull away their last cover and reveal everything between him and Verity.

But as soon as I opened my mouth, Clayton changed his tone.

Celestine, have you forgotten? When you lost your memory, who stayed by your side for twenty-one days?

And five years ago, when you were sick and needed blood, who gave it to you without hesitation?

Ive saved you again and again. Now its time for you to repay me; you cant be so heartless.

Each word he spoke felt like a blunt knife, stabbing into my heart again and again.

I felt the blood in my body turn cold little by little.

Even though I had decided to leave and no longer expected anything from him, when he calmly said, You should repay me, my heart still hurt.

In his heart, the time he stayed with me, the care he gave, the things I once treasured, were all debts.

Only then did I understand that if I did not repay this debt, I would never truly be free from him.

I took a deep breath, looked up at him, and answered calmly.

Fine. Ill give her blood.

Clayton clearly breathed out in relief.

I continued, Think of it as repayment for you saving me before. After this, we owe each other nothing.

Verity was still in the treatment room, her condition unclear. Clayton did not have time to think and only nodded without thinking.

Okay.

He said, As long as you save her, we can discuss the rest later.

I did not fight anymore.

As the doctor advised me, I simply said quietly, Take only the smallest amount of blood that is safe.

Then I shut my eyes.

When the needle entered my vein, there was no pain.

I only felt my body grow lighter bit by bit, as if something left me with the blood.

Clayton stood beside me, finally at ease, his voice much softer.

Wife, well have the wedding in a few days. After that, Ill help you recover well. Youve been wronged lately.

I did not want to listen to his promises anymore, and I would not trust them again.

After the blood was taken, Clayton said a few simple words and then left in a hurry once the surgery ended to check on Verity.

I remained in the hospital for two additional days.

During that time, he stayed beside Verity the whole time, watching her carefully, afraid she might have any problem.

He never returned to my ward, as if waiting for me to lower my head and apologize first.

In my heart, Clayton had always been a gentle man who rarely showed anger or a cold face. But once he was upset, he would disappear for days and leave me waiting.

Before, I was always afraid of him being unhappy. So when he showed even a little displeasure, I would lower my head first.

Because of this, Clayton believed he had full control over me. He thought that within three days, I would coax him and say sorry.

He never expected that on the third day, instead of apologizing, I received a message from the lawyer.

[The divorce process has been completed.]

I looked at that sentence. In my heart, there was only calm relief.

I completed the discharge steps, went home to pack one suitcase, and got on the plane.

On the plane, I removed the SIM card from my phone and threw it into the trash without care.

From that moment on, Clayton and I had no connection.

The debt was paid, the feelings were over.

And my child would not have a father named Clayton.

In the hospital, Claytons heart suddenly jumped. He looked at his phone by instinct and saw an unread message.

He smiled slightly, thinking it was my apology. But what he saw was.

[Mr. Clayton, your divorce registration with Ms. Celestine Grimes has been approved and was completed on March 1, 2026.]