My Husband Had Two Anniversaries… And I Was Neither

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On our seventh wedding anniversary, I was supposed to leave the country to present my breakthrough nerve-interface design at an international medical competition. Instead, I ended up standing in a cold office, holding a form like it meant anything.

I checked the details out of habit and then I frowned.

Um excuse me? Your records wrong. Im married. Not divorced.

The woman behind the glass barely looked up at first. Just clicked her mouse, bored, like my life was just another file.

Married. I was married.

Felix Gallardo wasnt just my husband. He was everything. A monster to the world, a king in the shadows, a man people whispered about like saying his name too loud might get them killed. A mafia boss who could burn cities down if he felt like it.

And mine.

Possessive didnt even begin to cover it. Felix didnt let go of things that belonged to him. And I belonged to him.

Even if I wanted to leave he wouldnt let me. So how the hell could I be divorced?

The staff checked again. Then again.

And then she looked at me like I was the crazy one.

Its correct, she said flatly. You and Mr. Gallardo divorced four years ago. That same day, he remarried. Why? Did you just bump into a wall or something? Women these days. Tsk.

My chest tightened.

T-thats not possible. Youre making a mistake.

She shook her head and raised her brow. No mistake. His current wife is Shannon Eastman. Do you know her?

Do I know her?

I think something inside me just snapped.

Yeah, I whispered. I know her.

God, I knew her too well.

Seven years ago, she tried to ruin my wedding. Screaming, crying, throwing herself at Felix like a lunatic. He didnt even blink. Just told his men, Get this bitch out of my sight. Twenty bodyguards dragged her away while I stood there shaking in my dress.

Four years ago, she broke into his office and stripped naked on his desk. Said shed do anything for him. Anything.

Felix didnt even look at her. Just picked up the phone and said, Police. Now. Theres a fucking problem in my office.

She got locked up for fifty days.

Five years ago

My hand started aching like it remembered before I did. She came into my office like a storm. No warning. No logic. Just rage.

I didnt even have time to react before she grabbed the axe on her bag and chopped off my right hand like I was nothing. I screamed in pain.

When Felix found out, he lost it.

I had never seen him like that. His eyes were red, his whole body shaking with rage.

Im gonna fucking kill her! I swear to God, Danica, Ill tear her apart piece by piece!

I was bleeding. Dying. And I still grabbed him. Felix dont, I begged. Please dont do it.

He looked at me like he didnt understand why I was stopping him but he listened.

He always listened to me.

Instead of killing her, he locked her up. Somewhere no one could find. And every day, he made sure she paid for what she did.

Anyone who touches you, he told me once, holding my face so gently it hurt, Ill make them wish they were dead. Ill make them suffer a thousand times worse.

That was Felix Gallardo.

Cruel. Violent. Unforgiving.

But never to me. Never.

So how how could he marry her on the same day she destroyed me?

My phone buzzed in my hand. I stared at the screen for a long second before opening it.

[Danica, its our Seventh anniversary today. Ill be back tonight. Still dealing with that crazy bitch. She wont last much longer. Dont wait up, Ill wake you myself.]

Another message came right after.

[I love you.]

My throat tightened.

He always said that.

Every message. Every call. Every time he looked at me like I was the only thing in his world.

I love you.

Back then, I was just nobody. A struggling surgeon, barely getting by. And him he was untouchable. Rich, powerful, dangerous.

And he chose me.

He chased me like I was something precious. Flew across countries just to see me for a few hours. Bought out entire streets just to light fireworks for me. Sent me flowers so rare I couldnt even pronounce their names.

When I got sick, he dropped everything and came back just to cook for me himself, cursing the whole time because he didnt know how to hold a spoon properly.

Eat, hed grumble, shoving the bowl toward me. I didnt fucking fly ten hours for you to starve.

When I was upset, hed pause meetings with men who could ruin lives with a word.

Wait, hed say, holding up a hand. Then hed call me. Whats wrong? Who pissed you off? Tell me their name, I'll burn them to hell.

And when someone threw acid at me out of jealousy, he didnt hesitate. He stepped in front of me like it was instinct.

His back got burned. Blood everywhere.

And he just held me and whispered, Hey hey, dont cry. I got you. Youre okay. I wont let anything happen to you.

So tell me Was all of that fake? Was I just stupid?

I didnt even realize I had already gotten into a taxi.

Where to, maam? the driver asked.

I hesitated for half a second.

Then I said it.

Sun Valley.

The place where Felix kept Shannon. My hands clenched in my lap.

If she was his wife Then who the hell was I?

I heard faint sobbing coming from the garden and my legs moved before my brain could catch up. I stepped closer, ducking under the drooping wisteria, and froze.

Felix. My husband. Dressed in a suit, looking untouchable, a predator in every sense. He held a soft leather whip, striking Shannon over and over. She was tied to the antique chaise lounge I had spent weeks choosing for our villa, completely naked.

And then, just like that, he dropped the whip, leaned over her, and kissed her. Hard. Dominant. His hands everywhere, his sweat slick on his back.

My stomach turned over. My chest felt ripped open, bleeding in ways I didnt even know were possible.

It wasnt sobbing Id heard. It was her moans. Pleasure. Laughter whispered through her gasps. The so-called punishment Id imagined wasnt torture. It was love. Their love. The prison hed spoken of all those times wasnt a cell. It was their playroom. Their nest.

I stumbled backward, staring at the chaise lounge I had painstakingly picked out for him, imagining him sitting there with me, hands blistered from carrying the weight of my life in his hands. Hed said once, soft but with fire, Danica deserves all the beauty in the world. This lounge is yours alone. And so is my love.

Now it wasnt mine. Not mine at all.

My hands clenched until they bled, pain ripping through me. Why? Why the hell would he do this?

And then I started listening.

Honey, youre amazing. Im so happy, Shannon said, her face flushed and glowing. Just thinking about how I finally married you makes me feel like Im dreaming.

You deserve it, Felix said, calm, almost casual, sliding on his shirt like the chaos behind him didnt exist. His voice was velvet with steel.

I froze at what he said next.

Four years ago, all I wanted was for Danica to stay here, to be with me forever. And you, he hissed, you took an axe and chopped off her hand so she could never chase her dreams again. Then you turn yourself in like some idiot martyr, thinking even if you rot in jail, my happiness matters more than yours.

I felt like someone was dragging a knife through my chest.

I ask myself if Im heartless, he continued, but I cant ignore selfless love like that. Danica can have my love openly, you only get to hide in this villa. I give you a title. Thats fair.

Fair? Fair? Wow.

I staggered back, heart pounding, eyes burning. Years ago, a noble brat mocked me, called me a broken-winged angel, and Felix made him eat his own tongue, cold as ice. And now hes here, kissing the woman who shattered me, giving her gifts, giving her his life, giving her a title.

I wanted to scream. I wanted to cry. I wanted to vanish.

What if she finds out? Shannon asked, voice worried, Miss McKellar wont accept it.

Felix smiled, calm, his power radiating from every pore. My love for Danica has never changed. Ill protect her for life. Shell never know. And shell never be hurt by you again.

He knelt and placed a pink diamond on Shannons hand.

Shannon gasped, eyes wide. This is the final item from Paris auction a few days ago. Worth a hundred million. Am I worthy?

Youre my woman, baby. He kissed her gently, and my blood froze. Of course youre worthy. Happy fourth anniversary, my wife.

And I stood there, broken, watching the man I loved, the man whod sworn I was his world, give himself to someone else.

...

I didnt leave the mountain until his black car disappeared down the road. I just stood there for a long time, like my body forgot how to move, like if I moved everything would become real.

My phone started vibrating in my hand. I looked down at it, numb, and tapped the screen.

[Danica, Im on my way home. I cant wait to celebrate our seventh anniversary with my darling. Love you.]

For a second, I didnt react. Then I laughed. God I laughed so hard I had to bend over, my shoulders shaking, tears streaming down my face like Id gone insane. Seventh anniversary? He had just finished celebrating four years with another woman, and now he was coming home to celebrate seven years with me? What was I to him? A joke? A pet? Or just someone too stupid to notice?

There was no seventh anniversary. We had been divorced for four years. Four whole years. And love? If Felixs version of love was cutting off my future, locking me in a golden cage, and lying straight to my face then I didnt want it anymore. Not even a little.

He said Id never find out. I wiped my tears, my fingers trembling. No, I whispered to myself. Youre the one whos going to lose me. Forever.

I tightened my grip on the application form in my hand, the paper crumpling under my fingers, then I turned around and did the only two things that mattered.

First, I applied to erase myself. Every identity record I had in this country. Gone. Clean. Like I never existed. Second, I submitted my application again. Under a new name. A new life. A new me.

four years ago, when Shannon cut off my right hand, she didnt just take it, she threw it to wild dogs like I was nothing. Felix lost his mind back then, spent billions, replace and transplant me a hand that looked real enough to fool anyone. It worked, I could live normally, but I couldnt operate the way I used to. I was a surgeon, precision was everything, and now it was gone. My dream died that day.

I tried to follow it. Three times. Three times I tried to end everything. And failed. After that I cried until I couldnt anymore, night after night until my throat burned and my chest felt hollow, and then one day I forced myself to stop. I went to hand rehab for my transplant hand. Simple, right? It wasnt. It was hell. More than a thousand days and nights, blood and pain, my fingers splitting open, calluses forming and breaking again and again. But I made it. I fucking made it. I got back to where I could stand again.

I kept it from Felix. I wanted to surprise him, wanted him to see that the woman he loved didnt break so easily. Now? I was just glad I didnt tell him. If he knew would he have taken both of my hands too? The thought made my stomach twist.

My phone buzzed again. I looked down.

Your cancellation application has been submitted and will be processed within eight business days.

Eight days. After eight days, Id be gone. No name. No trace. Even someone like Felix, with all his power, all his connections, he wouldnt find someone who didnt exist.

As the sun went down, I went back to the villa. The moment I stepped inside, I felt it. Tension. Fear. Chaos. Felix stood in the middle of the living room, surrounded by his men. The servants were tied up on the floor, shaking, their faces pale. His voice was cold, sharp, dangerous. Where the fuck is she? he demanded. You think I wont break every single one of you until someone talks?!

The moment they saw me, it was like theyd been saved. Miss Danica! someone gasped.

Felix turned. And everything about him changed. The cold in his eyes melted instantly, relief hitting his face so hard it almost looked painful.

Danica! He crossed the room in seconds and pulled me into his arms, holding me tight like I might disappear. Where the hell did you go? his voice dropped, Ive been calling you. I thought something happened. You scared the shit out of me.

I went stiff for a second, then forced myself to relax. I was shopping, I said quietly. Lost track of time.

He pulled back, looking at me, then sighed like he couldnt even be mad. Next time, take me with you, he said, brushing my hair back gently. Your husband can carry your bags, pay for everything, and show up the second you call. Thats what Im here for, yeah?

Husband. The word stabbed right through me. No youre not. You stopped being that four years ago.

Todays our seventh anniversary, he continued, smiling slightly. Come on. Ive got something for you.

He took my hand and led me outside, straight to the helipad, and before I could say anything he picked me up like I weighed nothing and carried me into the helicopter. The blades roared to life, wind whipping around us as we lifted into the sky. I didnt speak. I just watched him. This man. This stranger.

After we climbed high enough, he tilted my chin toward the window. Look.

I looked down. The city lights shifted, moving, aligning until they formed words stretching across the dark.

LOVE, DANICA.

My breath caught. It was beautiful. It was insane. It was him.

Felix leaned close, his lips brushing my ear, his voice low and soft. I love you, Danica, he murmured. Always have. Always will.

My chest tightened. If someone else saw this, theyd think I was the luckiest woman alive. So why did I feel like I was drowning?

The helicopter slowly descended, landing outside a massive estate far from the city. And I knew this night wasnt over yet.

The helicopter landed in front of a massive mansion, the kind that looked like it belonged to royalty or monsters, maybe both. Felix had bought it for five billion, people whispered about it like it was some legend. The gates were carved in insane detail, and right in the center were the words that made my chest tighten.

Danicas Palace.

I couldnt breathe for a second.

Everything about it it was me.

The whole place was built in that aesthetic style I once mentioned I liked, just casually, like it didnt matter. The garden was filled with orchids, rows and rows of them, rare ones, the kind that cost more than most people made in years. And further in I saw it.

An amusement park.

My amusement park.

Carousels, Ferris wheels, roller coasters, all glowing softly in the night like something out of a dream. Even a small petting zoo, full of dogs running around, playing, sleeping, safe.

Because I once stopped to feed a stray.

Because I once said they looked lonely.

That was all it took for him.

My eyes burned.

He remembered everything.

Every little thing.

For seven years he really did love me like that. He gave me everything I ever wanted, even the things I didnt dare to ask for.

So why why did it feel like I was dying?

Because now I knew.

That love wasnt just mine.

He had split it.

Given half to me and half to the woman who destroyed me.

Felix stepped closer and wiped the tears from my face with his thumb, so gentle it almost hurt more.

Hey, he murmured, voice low. A husbands supposed to take care of his wife. If you keep crying like this, its gonna mess me up. Dont do that to me.

I almost laughed.

Husband?

Which one?

Under the stars, he suddenly dropped to one knee. My breath caught as he opened a velvet box, a ring inside catching the light.

Danica, he said, looking up at me like I was everything. Marrying you was the best thing that ever happened to me. I love you so damn much I cant even stand being away from you for a second.

My fingers trembled.

So I fixed it. This ring its got a chip inside. And mine has the receiver. Means Ill always know where you are, what youre doing. I wont ever lose you again.

Something inside me went cold.

Love?

Or control?

His eyes were intense, almost frightening, like if I tried to run hed burn the world just to drag me back.

He reached for my hand.

And right before the ring slid onto my finger

His phone rang.

A specific tone.

I saw it in his eyes. Just for a second.

Shannon.

He checked it quickly, face unreadable, then slipped the ring onto my finger anyway like nothing happened. Like I didnt matter enough to pause for.

Danicas an important client, he said casually, already turning away. Ill be right back. Dont wait too long.

Client?

I almost choked on that. Before I could even respond, he was gone. Already moving, already boarding the helicopter, like whatever was on that phone mattered more than this moment.

More than me.

The sound of the blades faded into the distance.

And then it was quiet.

I lowered my head slowly and picked up one of the puppies near my feet, holding it close as I crouched down. It bark softly against my palm, warm, alive.

But my chest felt empty. The stray dogs found a home. So why didnt I?

Something slipped from my finger. It was the ring. My heart sank as I picked it up. He didnt even notice.

He gave me the wrong one.

The one meant for him. The one that receives. Which meant The one he took was the one with the chip.

Tracking.

Monitoring.

For a long second, I just stared at it. Then I pressed the switch.

A voice came through almost immediately.

Im sorry, honey I didnt want to get like this, Shannons voice trembled, But Ive been locked here for four years, I feel like Im losing my mind.

My fingers tightened.

You dont have to worry about me, she continued, trying to sound strong. Its your seventh anniversary with Miss McKellar today. Go be with her. Ill be fine. I mean we made it through four years already, right?

Silence for a second.

Then his voice.

Dont talk bullshit, Felix said, sharp but controlled. You think Id leave you like this? Youre sick. Im your man. I take care of you, no matter what day it is.

My heart cracked.

I dont care if its a damn anniversary or a meeting or whatever, he continued, softer now. You come first when youre like this. Well go out, get some air. Clear your head.

Really? Shannon gasped, her voice lighting up. I can leave? Im not dreaming, right?

Felix let out a quiet breath, almost amused. Since when do I lie to you? Get ready. Were leaving now.

And then the sound of the helicopter.

Loud. Familiar.

Carrying her away.

Again.

Four years ago, when I had just lost my right hand and the pain was so bad I couldnt even breathe, Felix stayed with me the whole time. He didnt sleep, didnt eat properly, just stayed there like if he let go for even a second, Id break.

One night, he dragged me out of bed and carried me straight to a helicopter. I remember clinging to him, weak, barely holding on, and he just held me tighter like I was something fragile.

When we were high up in the sky, he tilted my face toward the window.

Look, he said softly. See that? All those buildings they look small as hell from up here, right?

I nodded, my vision blurry.

He pressed his forehead against mine, his voice rough but gentle. Thats life, Danica. No matter how big something feels, its not bigger than you. You hear me? Theres no problem you cant get through.

His hand squeezed mine. And youre not doing it alone. Youve got me. Ill get you through anything. I swear.

Back then I believed him.

I really did but now I knew the truth. That nightmare that pain it started because of him.

...

The helicopter sound pulled me back to the present. I looked up, my eyes narrowing slightly. For a second, I thought I was imagining it.

But I wasnt.

It landed right next door.

Another mansion.

Identical.

My chest tightened.

The ring in my hand buzzed faintly, and his voice came through.

Shannon, Felix said, calm, almost soft in a way I hadnt heard in a long time, you didnt get to leave the villa before. But Ive got something for you now. This place its yours. Your anniversary gift.

I stopped breathing.

Ill stay here with you today, he added quietly.

Shannon laughed, bright and happy, like shed just been handed the world.

At the same time, my phone lit up.

[Danica, Ive got to meet a client about a project. Wont be back until tomorrow night. Dont wait up. Go have fun or whatever you want. If you need anything, call your husband. Love you.]

My fingers tightened around the phone.

A tear slipped down and blurred the word husband on the screen.

He could build the same life twice.

Same house. Same love. Same everything. But he could only belong to one woman.

And it wasnt me.

Just one wall away, he was with his real wife.

And me? I felt like a dirty secret. Like something hidden in the dark. Like a mistress he couldnt show the world. My chest hurt, but this time I didnt cry.

Not anymore.

It was almost over anyway.

I wiped my face and turned away from the mansion. I didnt stay. I went home.

And I worked.

I picked up my instruments, both hands stiff but steady enough now, and forced myself to focus. I had only passed the preliminary stage. If I wanted to go further, I had to be better. Stronger. Faster.

Better than everyone else.

Maybe it was everything that had just happened but decisions started coming to me fast. Sharp. Precise. Like pain had carved something open inside my mind, turning hesitation into instinct.

When I finally finished the first procedure plan, I leaned back, staring at it, breathing slowly. My fingers brushed against the ring on the steel tray by accident.

A soft click.

And then

I know one day isnt enough Shannons voice came through, soft and breaking. After this, I have to go back and hide again, right?

My body went still.

I get it, she whispered. I know I cant let Miss McKellar see me. I know I dont deserve that. But I really want to be like her. I want to stand beside you openly. Not hide like this. Just once, I want to be your wife in front of everyone.

Silence.

My breath got stuck in my throat.

My arm started shaking.

God it felt like that day again. Like the blade coming down, like my hand being torn away. The pain came rushing back, phantom and real all at once.

It hurts.

Why does it still hurt this much?

Felix knew.

He knew exactly what she did to me. Thats why he kept her hidden. Because he knew if she showed her face I would break.

He would never allow that.

Right?

Right?

After a long silence, his voice came through.

Okay.

Just one word.

But it destroyed everything.

I clutched my chest, gasping like something inside me had been ripped open.

....

A day later, Felix came back like nothing had happened.

Right on time.

Like a perfect husband.

He walked in with gifts like it was just another normal day. A necklace, blue and shining like the ocean itself, worth more than I could even process. And a dress, custom-made, covered in diamonds that caught every bit of light.

Danica, he said, his voice softer now, almost warm. Its our seventh anniversary. I want everyone to see how happy we are.

Happy.

I didnt say anything.

I just changed into the dress.

Let him put the necklace on me.

Let him look at me like I was something precious.

And then I let him take my hand and lead me out.

The banquet was held in one of his hotels. Of course it was. Seven stars, private, untouchable. His territory.

The ballroom was packed. Celebrities, mafias, business elites, people with power and money, all dressed like they belonged in a different world.

Everything sparkled.

Everything looked perfect. But something felt off. All the waiters wore the same uniform and masks.

Every single one of them.

Felix barely looked at the masked staff and then glanced at me like none of it mattered. Danica, he said calmly, youre the center of tonight. No ones stealing your spotlight. Masks keep the background where it belongs.

My stomach dropped. I think I already knew.

Before I could say anything, people started crowding in, all smiles and fake admiration.

Mr. Gallardos still crazy in love, huh?

Mrs. Gallardo is so lucky.

I heard he bought her a five billion dollar mansion for their anniversary.

They say every year his gifts get bigger. His love too.

Love. The word made me feel sick.

Then suddenlyfabric tearing. The sound cut straight through the room.

A waitress had fallen, her dress ripped high up her thigh, exposing way too much. She scrambled up, shaking. Im sorry Im so sorry

No one moved. No one even looked at her properly. Because everyone was scared. Felix didnt tolerate mistakes. Not tonight. Not ever. I saw it in their faces. They thought she was dead.

Felixs voice came out cold enough to freeze the room. Come with me.

Then he turned to me, and just like that, his tone softened. Danica, he said gently, brushing my arm, rules matter. People need to learn them the hard way sometimes. Ill deal with her and come right back, alright?

I nodded without thinking.

He grabbed the waitress by the wrist and dragged her away like she weighed nothing. Something felt wrong. Really wrong.

A few minutes later I followed. I dont even know why. Maybe I already knew what Id find.

The conference room door upstairs was slightly open. I pushed it just enough to see.

And my whole world just shattered again.

The waitress was sitting on the table, legs wrapped around Felixs waist. The mask was gone. It was Shannon. Of course it was.

Her face was wet with tears, looking so pitiful, so fragile like she was the victim in all this. My chest tightened so hard I thought Id collapse. So this was it. This whole night wasnt for me. It was for her.

Honey Shannons voice trembled. Im sorry. I shouldve just been happy you brought me out. But seeing you with her seeing how gentle you were it hurt so bad. I got overwhelmed and I couldnt breathe I just fell. I embarrassed you. Did I ruin everything for you and Miss McKellar?

Felix didnt even hesitate. Of course not, he said quietly. His hand came up, wiping her tears like they mattered. Im just worried about you. You dont look okay. Ill have someone take you back, get a specialist to check on you. You need to rest.

I dont want anyone else, she whispered, clinging to him tighter. They cant fix me. You can. Youre the only one who can. Dont send me away please.

Felix let out a low breath, something dark flickering in his eyes. Yeah? he murmured. You really think Im your cure?

Try me, she said softly.

He chuckled under his breath, then pulled her in and kissed her.

I couldnt breathe. I couldnt move. Everything felt wrong.

Feeling better? he asked against her lips.

A little, she whispered. But not enough I need more.

Her hands moved over him, slow, teasing.

Felix groaned softly, his grip tightening. Fuck! You acting up cause youre sick, he muttered, voice rough, or you just trying to mess with me right now?

She laughed quietly, her breath brushing his ear. Both.

The next second, he pushed her back against the table, his control snapping just like that.

I flinched.

My vision blurred.

I remembered.

Four years ago. That same woman, naked on his desk, begging him. Please just once

And Felix didnt even look at her. Get this shit out of my office, he had said coldly.

Then he covered my eyes, pulling me into him. Dont look, he murmured. Its disgusting. Ill only ever touch one woman. You.

I believed him. God I believed him.

And now he was touching her like she was everything. Like she was the only one. There was no disgust in his eyes. Only affection.

I couldnt watch anymore. I turned and walked away, my legs shaking so badly I almost fell.

...

When Felix came back later, it was like nothing had happened. Like he didnt just break me upstairs.

He held a box in his hand and walked straight to me, smiling slightly. Danica, he said, placing it in my hands, this hotel its yours now.

I blinked. What?

Transfer papers are inside, he added casually. Tonight happened here. Thought it deserved to belong to you.

Billions. Just like that. Given to me like it was nothing.

People around us gasped quietly, their eyes full of envy. They thought I had everything. They had no idea.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw her.

Shannon.

She walked down the stairs slowly, back in her uniform, mask covering her face again. No one would recognize her.

But I did.

Her hands were clenched tight at her sides. Even without seeing her face I knew. She wasnt happy.

A moment later, Shannon let go of him and went back to work like nothing happened. She started setting up the champagne tower, careful and slow, standing on her toes as she stacked the glasses from the top down. For a second, everything looked normal.

Then suddenly, she slipped. Or thats what it looked like. Her ankle twisted and she grabbed the tablecloth in panic, and the whole thing came crashing down. Glass shattered everywhere, sharp and loud, like something breaking beyond repair. Pieces flew toward both of us. People gasped.

Felixs face changed instantly and he ran forward. Not to me. To her. He pulled Shannon into his arms, shielding her completely like she was something fragile, something worth protecting.

I had already stepped back, already avoided most of it. But then he slammed into me. Hard. My body lost balance and I fell straight to the ground. My head hit first. Everything went white for a second, then warm liquid started running down the side of my face. Blood. Glass shards cut into my skin, shallow at first, then deeper, burning like I was being sliced apart slowly. My whole body shook, pain spreading everywhere. I couldnt even scream.

My vision blurred. And somehow I smiled. So this was the truth. I used to think he loved us equally. Split in half. But if he had to choose he already did.

When I woke up, I was in a hospital bed. The lights were too bright. My head throbbed.

Danica his voice was low, almost guilty. I was trying to protect you. I just I got confused. I was worried and grabbed the wrong person.

Wrong person.

He kept kissing my hand over and over, like that would fix anything, like he could pour his feelings into something I couldnt even feel. Because it wasnt real.

I stared at him. Felt nothing. Then what about the waitress? I asked coldly.

I knew what I saw. That fall wasnt an accident.

Felix paused for a second, then shrugged slightly. She messed up. Careless. I already had her blacklisted. She wont be working anywhere again.

I blinked. Then I laughed. God I laughed again. It hurt. It actually hurt to laugh, like cracks forming inside my chest, letting all the pain leak out. Shannon wasnt even a waitress. So what kind of punishment was that? Like telling a bird it could never be a fish again. So stupid. So meaningless.

Felix saw me smiling and relaxed a little, like everything was fine again. After that, he stayed by my side, attentive, careful, perfect. He checked my IV himself, adjusted it like it mattered. He treated my wounds personally, his hands gentle, focused.

He peeled a lychee and held it to my lips. Eat, he said softly.

I did.

Then he held out his hand without a word, waiting for me to spit the seed into his palm like he always used to.

The nurses walking past looked at me with envy. Like I was lucky. If only they knew.

Then my phone rang. That same ringtone.

He froze for half a second. Then he stood up like nothing was wrong. Danica, Ive got something at the company, he said calmly. Ill be back soon. Dont wait up, alright?

I nodded. Of course I did.

Only after he was gone completely gone did I turn on the receiver in the ring. And then I understood.

Shannon was in the hospital too. But not like me. He wasnt checking her IV. Wasnt treating her wounds. Because she didnt have any. Just a minor scratch. Already healed.

Instead

Stay still, his voice came through, lower, rougher. Youre gonna make a mess.

I froze. I didnt want to hear it. Didnt want to understand. But I couldnt stop listening.

Honey if you keep me locked up like that, Im gonna lose it, Shannons voice trembled, soft and broken. I cant breathe in that place anymore. I feel like Im dying slowly. Please, dont send me back there. I want to go out. I want to be seen. I want to stand next to you even if its in front of her

My fingers tightened around the ring.

I even want to be close to you like that even if shes there

I shut my eyes. I couldnt listen anymore.

Careful what you ask for, Felix murmured, voice low and dangerous.

The sounds that followed, I didnt need to understand them. I turned the switch off.

My hand was shaking. My chest felt hollow. Like there was nothing left inside me at all.

After everything settled down, Felix said that word again.

Okay.

Three days later, I was discharged.

Felix carried me the whole way. From the hospital, into the car, then all the way back to the villa like I couldnt even walk. He laid me down on the sofa carefully, his voice low and warm. Youre still recovering. Dont push yourself. I dont want you getting tired.

It sounded so gentle.

So loving.

Until I saw her.

Shannon.

Standing there among the servants, wearing a maid uniform like she belonged there.

My chest tightened so hard it hurt.

I looked at Felix, disbelief crashing over me.

She said she wanted to leave the villa and this was his solution?

Bring her here?

Danica, listen, Felix pulled me closer, his arms tightening around me like he was afraid Id slip away. His tone was soft, but there was something firm underneath it. If she went to prison back then, shed already be out by now. four years is nothing. But Im not letting her off that easy.

He tilted my chin up, making me look at him.

So I brought her here. Shell serve you. Keep atoning for what she did.

My stomach twisted.

He kept going like this made sense.

I even talked to a psychologist, he added. Youve been under pressure lately. Facing her, having her around it might actually help you heal. Trust me, Danica. Everything Im doing its because I love you.

Love.

He said it so easily.

And the worst part?

He looked sincere.

The same face he had seven years ago when he got down on one knee and promised me Id never suffer again.

Now he was the one breaking me.

Again and again.

What was the difference between this and pouring salt into an open wound?

I thought Id break.

I thought Id scream at him, refuse, fight back.

But I didnt.

There was nothing left in me.

Just empty.

Okay, I said quietly. Ill do what you want.

Even if he made her the mistress of this house I wouldnt care.

Because I was leaving anyway.

Soon.

For the rest of the day, Shannon acted like the perfect maid. Cleaning, moving quietly, keeping her head down. Felix didnt even look at her once. He stayed by my side the whole time, like she didnt exist.

That night, he handed me a glass of milk.

Drink this, he said softly. Itll help you sleep. Your body still needs rest.

I took it.

And the moment he looked away, I poured it out.

Something felt off.

I pretended to drink it anyway.

...

Later that night, I lay there, eyes closed, breathing slow.

Waiting.And just like I thought

Felix leaned down and kissed my forehead.

Sleep well, he murmured.

Then he got up and left the room.

The door clicked shut.

A few seconds later

Honey are you sure this is okay? Shannons voice came, soft but excited. Doing this while shes here?

Felix let out a quiet laugh. Youre overthinking it. When have I ever broken a promise to you?

My lashes trembled.

I opened my eyes slowly.

Through the glass doors, I could see them.

Right there.

Behind me.

He had her pinned against the wall, his body pressed close, his head lowering as he kissed her slowly, like he had all the time in the world.

Like I didnt exist.

My hands clenched so hard my nails dug into my palms.

It hurts but not as much as before.

Not anymore. Because he didnt deserve my pain.

...

The next morning, Felix left early for the company. I stayed in my room, working on my designs. I didnt want to see her. Not even by accident.

So the maids brought my meals in.

Breakfast.

Lunch.

Quiet.

Peaceful.

Until evening. There was a knock.

I walked over and opened the door.

Shannon stood there.

Holding a tray.

Her posture straight, her chin slightly raised, her eyes filled with something ugly.

Danica, she said, her voice light but sharp underneath. I saw you that day. Outside the conference room.

My grip on the door tightened.

I never thought someone like you would end up like this, she continued, smiling faintly. You used to be so proud. And now? After losing a hand you just gave up everything. How do you even live like this?

My stomach turned.

She stepped closer.

Then again what choice do you have? she added softly. Youre useless now. You cant even stand on your own. You need Felix to survive. So of course you wont fight back. You dont dare.

I felt sick just looking at her.

What are you trying to say? I asked coldly.

Her smile widened.

Im saying no matter how long you hide like a coward, you wont keep him, she said, her voice dropping. Ill push you out slowly. Step by step. Until youve got nowhere left to go.

Her eyes locked onto mine. Felix belongs to me.

My hand curled into a fist. For a second I wanted to slap her.

Hard.

But I stopped myself. She wasnt worth it.Touching her would only make me feel worse. There were other ways.

Better ways.

I stepped back, ready to close the door. And then Footsteps.

Shannons expression changed instantly the moment she heard the footsteps. One second she was smug, the next she looked like she was about to cry. Then she threw herself backward.

The tray flipped, rice and soup spilling all over her body.

She raised her already red hand, trembling, voice soft and pitiful. Miss McKellar I know youre still mad at me. If pushing me makes you feel better, then Ill take it. You can do it again if you want.

I felt sick.

I didnt push you, I said flatly. You made that up yourself.

Shannons tears fell faster. If saying that helps you feel better, then Ill just say I fell on my own.

Felix stood behind her.

For a second, I saw it.

That flicker.

Heartache.

For her.

My stomach twisted.

His expression shifted, something dark passing through his eyes, but then he looked at me instead, like he was forcing himself to believe me.

Danica, he said slowly, I trust you. If you two cant get along, then fine. Ill send her away right now.

Shannon froze. What?

Felixs voice turned cold. Didnt you hear me? Pack your shit and leave.

She looked stunned, biting her lip, holding back tears like shed been wronged. O-Okay Ill go now.

Good, Felix said, then turned back to me, his tone softening instantly. Dont let people like that ruin your mood. I came back early just to spend time with you. Lets go out, yeah? Ill take you somewhere nice.

He took my hand and led me into the dressing room like nothing happened.

Like she didnt just perform that whole scene.

He picked out a dress himself, matching it with jewelry, his eyes focused like I was the only thing that mattered.

Change first, he said. Ill go deal with her.

He walked out.

And I turned on the ring.

His voice came through, completely different now. Gentle. Soft.

Honey Im sorry you had to go through that, he said quietly. Seeing her push you like that it pissed me off.

I clenched my jaw.

But its part of the plan, he continued. She agreed to me sending you away. That means youre free now.

Shannon sounded confused. What do you mean?

It means go back to the villa for now, he said calmly. After that, you can go wherever you want. Youre not locked up anymore. Just message me when you get back so I know youre safe.

Her voice broke, full of emotion. Youre youre so good to me.

Felix chuckled softly. Youre my wife. If I dont take care of you, who the hell will?

I turned the ring off.

My hands were cold.

That night, we went to a high-end Italian restaurant. One of those places where everything looked perfect. The food, the lighting, the view from the top floor overlooking the city.

It shouldve been romantic.

But I felt nothing.

Felix sat across from me, looking calm, composed but I noticed it.

The way he kept checking his phone.

Waiting.

Of course he was.

Waiting for her message because she was his wife.

When his phone finally rang, he answered immediately, like hed been holding his breath this whole time.

He moved too fast and pressed the wrong button.

Speaker.

Shannons voice came through, shaking, panicked.

I Ive been taken! I dont know where theyre bringing me but its okay. Maybe this is better if I disappear, Miss McKellar wont be upset anymore ah! Help me!

The line cut.

Felixs face changed instantly.

He tried calling back. Again. Again.

Nothing.

Then he looked at me.

His voice forced calm, but I could hear the tension underneath. Danica where did you send her?

I frowned. What?

If youre pissed, you tell me, he said, his tone tightening. Ill handle it. You dont need to get your hands dirty. Why the hell would you do something like this yourself?

Ill say it again, I said quietly, putting my fork down. It wasnt me.

The next second, his hand clamped around my wrist.

Tight.

Shannons not stable, he snapped, his voice sharp now. She cant handle this kind of shit!

My heart stuttered.

Danica, he continued, frustration breaking through, can you just stop for a second? You lost a hand, yeah, I know, but shes been through a lot too. Stop pushing her and just let her go, alright?

I froze.

My eyes slowly burned. Shes been through a lot?

I almost laughed.

She attacked me with an axe. And someone protected her so she didnt even spend a day in prison.

She married the man she wanted. She lived comfortably, hidden away, loved for four years.

And now she was free.

So tell me

Who was the victim?

And who had been fighting alone this whole time?

I forced my tears back and looked at him, my voice slow and steady. I said I didnt do it, and even if this is a transplanted hand, it still hurts.

Felix froze, then looked down at my wrist like he just noticed it was red. Shit Danica, Im sorry, he muttered, letting go right away. I thought you might do something reckless. I didnt mean to hurt you. He exhaled and added, Where are the rings I gave you? Why arent you wearing them?

I almost laughed. You gave me the mens one. It didnt fit, so I took it off.

He paused, a little thrown off, then nodded. Alright. Well switch them back when we get home.

After that, he dropped it. Like Shannon didnt even exist.

...

Three days later, late at night, his phone rang and he got up immediately. His hand was already on the door when he suddenly turned back to look at me and stopped. I just sat there, calm, not asking anything, not stopping him, nothing. For a second he looked unsettled. Like he didnt expect this version of me. He hesitated, like he might stay, but then his phone rang again.

Something came up at the company, he said quickly and left.

He didnt come home that night. Just one message.

[Danica, Ive got work. Staying late. Go to sleep first. Love you.]

I stared at it, then turned the screen off. Those words meant nothing now.

The next morning, a maid said someone was looking for me. I stepped outside and something hit the back of my head. Everything went black.

When I woke up, my body was tied up. Hands, legs, everything. My mouth was sealed. I was in a private room in a nightclub, music faint in the background. They dressed me in a servant's uniform and a mask. Just like her. My hair was gone, cut short and uneven, barely touching my ears. Felix liked my long hair. Said it made me look soft. Now it was gone.

The door slammed open.

Wife, is this the one who locked you up and tortured you for three days? Felixs voice was low and dangerous.

Its her! Shannon cried immediately. She said Miss McKellar ordered her to make me suffer, to make me wish I was dead. She tortured me, locked me up, even brought men to humiliate me. I almost her voice broke. I barely made it out

I struggled, trying to make a sound. Nothing came out.

Felixs tone turned colder. Danica went too far. I wont touch her, but I can make an example out of someone else. He paused, then said, Bring me the whip. The one soaked in salt.

My whole body started shaking. She wasnt just framing me. She wanted him to think I was something filthy. Someone he could punish.

Felix stepped closer, whip in hand, looking at me. For a second, he hesitated. His eyes narrowed slightly, like something felt off. The lights were dim. Maybe he saw it. Maybe he felt it. That something about me was familiar.

Then

Honey Shannon hugged him from behind, her voice soft and trembling. Thank you for standing up for me. That woman she hurt me so much

I knew why he didnt recognize me. I never wore servant uniforms and I always kept my hair long, the way he liked it. The woman in front of him now had short, uneven hair and a cheap uniform, and there was no way, in his mind, that I could be his Danica. I saw it in his eyes, the moment that thought settled in, everything warm in him disappeared. What was left was cold and violent and insane.

If you dare touch my wife, Ill make you suffer a thousand times worse! You fucking hear me?! Ill make you wish you were never fucking born.

The whip cut through the air. Smack! The first hit landed hard and my back snapped straight, the barbs tearing into my skin like claws.

Pain exploded through me and I screamed, but it came out muffled behind the tape. The second hit came and my vision blurred instantly, it felt like hot metal was pressed into my flesh, burning and ripping everything apart. I couldnt breathe, or maybe I was breathing too fast, I didnt even know anymore.

The third hit made me bite down so hard I tasted blood, my whole body curling and shaking, pain sinking into my bones with no escape. It didnt stop. Again and again and again.

By the time he reached ninety-nine, I wasnt fighting anymore. My body was soaked in blood, twitching like it didnt belong to me. My mind drifted somewhere far away and I remembered something. He once said hed punish her, said hed tie her up and whip her and make her pay for what she did to me. He promised. So why why was I the one here? Why was I the one bleeding under his hands?

Shannon, his voice came through the haze, calm like nothing happened. How many men did she bring to mess with you?

Ten, she whispered.

Good, he said coldly. Then Ill make it worse. My heart dropped.

Bring in a hundred of the filthiest guys you can find, he ordered. And give her something to make it more fun.

He stepped forward and kicked my chin hard. You think you can touch my wife and walk away? Ill fucking ruin you.

The mask fell off.

Felix! I forced the sound out, everything breaking inside me. If you knew it was me would you regret it?

But it didnt come out right, just broken sounds and choking sobs. He didnt even look. He had already turned away, holding Shannons hand.

Dont look, he told her gently. Its disgusting. Ill stay with you the next few days, alright?

Their voices faded and the door closed. Someone came in and untied me just enough to shove a pill into my mouth. I tried to resist but couldnt. My body started heating up almost immediately, too fast, too much. My chest tightened and my skin felt like it was burning.

Then they came. One after another. Dirty men, reeking, their eyes crawling over me like I wasnt even human. Hands touched me, rough and sick. I felt like throwing up and then something worse happened, my body reacted, heat spreading in a way that felt wrong and disgusting, mixing with the pain until I couldnt tell anything apart. Tears streamed down my face. What is happening to me?

I grabbed the nearest thing I could reach, a vase. Smashed it. And drove a shard into my thigh. The pain hit sharp and clean and cleared my head just enough. I looked up and they were getting closer, no way out except the window behind me. I didnt think, I just ran and jumped.

For a second I thought I was dead, but I hit grass. It hurt like hell but I was alive. The back door of the club was open and I ran, didnt stop, didnt look back. Blood soaked through everything and my body screamed at me but I kept going.

My phone kept vibrating. I checked.

[Danica, this projects gonna take a few more days. Be good and wait for me at home. Love you.]

I laughed, broken and empty. Another message came.

Your identity cancellation has been completed. All records under this name are now invalid.

I stared at it and then I smiled, for real this time. I was finally gone.

...

Back at the villa, I packed fast. He had taken most of my documents long ago but it didnt matter anymore. That person didnt exist. I only took what I needed. I took off the ring, still stained with my blood, and placed it on the desk. Hed see it. Hed know everything he did.

I used to think Id take revenge myself but now I didnt have to. That ring was enough. It would destroy him.

When I left, it was night. The sky was deep blue and the stars were faint under the city lights, but they were still there. And stars they always shine eventually, right?

I bought a ticket under my new name. One way.

As the plane lifted into the sky, I leaned back and closed my eyes. I was getting closer to something new.

Goodbye, Felix. I just hoped wed never meet again.