Frugal Husband's Secret Identity

I lay awake all night, and as dawn broke, he pulled me close in his sleep.

I felt only revulsion and coldly turned my back. Eric, looking wounded, asked, "Mia, why so cold today?"

Normally, we'd cuddle for ages; I mean, the guy has got the looks and the body—I've always been happy to invest in him.

But now, everything's changed.

I made an excuse and got up; he suspected nothing.

He said he had a major deal to close today and might be late, telling me not to wait up.

He kissed my forehead and murmured, "Soon, we'll have our dream home."

That night, dressed as a waitress with a hat and mask to avoid recognition.

I was bracing myself, hoping it was all a misunderstanding, but right at the entrance, I overheard some snickers.

"Eric and Mandy were the golden couple back then. If she hadn't gone overseas, they'd likely be married by now."

"Man, cut it out—Eric's hitched now."

Another chipped in, "Eric's been burned before, that's why he rushed into this marriage. Without Mia Mark's eyes reminding him of Mandy, would he even bother with plain Jane?"

My heart skipped a beat. Instinctively, I texted Eric: [Where are you?]

[Babe, I'm out with clients—don't wait up, get some rest.]

Then a sweet voice piped up, "Oh, Eric, is that true?"

Eric replied, "Sorry, folks, gotta head home."

Laughter erupted around him.

"Eric's on a tight leash, huh?"

"Yeah, home by midnight, every night."

A wave of laughter swept through as I pushed the door open, tray in hand.