A Lie in the Name of Care

"I've done everything for you, but you never consider my needs," Dale said, voice thick with disappointment. "A man in my position needs an heir, or people will laugh. Cecily's child is mine, and I'm keeping it."

He snatched my phone and scooped up Cecily. "We're going to the hospital to make sure nothing is wrong."

"Okay." Cecily nodded meekly, shooting me a smug smirk.

The room fell silent, but my heart ached with Dale's words. Tears streamed down my face as I recalled our engagement.

Dale, usually so stoic, had cried like a child, kneeling before me. "I want to build a home with you and care for you forever. I've shielded you from storms, and I'll keep you safe and happy."

I had said yes without hesitation, moved by his sincerity.

He'd once taken a knife for me, proving he'd risk his life to protect me. Now, he was the one plunging a knife into my heart.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. Once cooled, I continued to pack my things.

Dale thought that he could trap me by taking my phone, but no amount of data could hold me back.

I went to the study to retrieve my documents, but the lock's password had been changed.

I laughed bitterly. They'd done something so despicable, yet they thought they could cage me.

I bit my lip, my sadness hardening into resolve. I pulled a medical report from the bottom drawer and gripped it tightly.

If they wouldn't let me go, I'd make this blow up. We would see who'd be crying in the end.

...

The next day, Dale and Cecily returned.

Dale's tone carried a hint of glee. "You cool with us three living together now? You see, Cecily won't mess with our marriage. She just wants a kid, and so do I. Once the baby is born, she and I are done."

Cecily forced a smile, reaching for my arm. "I'm so glad you're coming around. I don't want to lose you. We're still best friends, right? Oh, where is that bag you got me from your trip?"

I yanked my arm free. "Thrown away."

Her smile faded, giving way to a quiet sorrow. Dale patted her back comfortingly.

"Don't get upset. It's bad for the baby," he cooed. "The latest deal is done, and I'll get you an even better bag."

I snorted, ignoring their theatrics. "Who said the deal was done? I told you I came back early. The contract signing is today, and Mr. Powers will only negotiate with me."

I fixed Dale with an icy stare and continued, "Only I can sign that contract. You wouldn't let your mistress mess up the deal, would you?"

He scowled, stung by the threat in my words, but he masked it. "Of course not."