I Broke Free from His Love Chains

"Has anyone reported a missing person in the past few days?"

Andy inquired casually, removing his gloves.

His astuteness was undeniable.

If a nearby report had surfaced, it would likely stem from a family member of the victim, significantly narrowing the scope of identity verification.

Max shook his head, handing Andy a towel.

"None of the recent reports have been for missing persons."

Andy nodded. "Then we'll have to wait a bit longer. Let's start by sending the victim's tissue for DNA testing."

Just then, his phone rang out.

A message from Ruby flashed on the screen.

It was a selfie of her donning a slender slip dress. She was stirring soup in her kitchen with a playful smile.

"Andy, when you're done with work, come over for dinner. I've made your favorite mushroom soup especially for you."

Upon seeing Ruby's message, Andy eased his furrowed brow. His eyes were softening with a tender light.

I watched him, lost in thought.

I recalled the early days of our marriage when Andy was equally attentive to me.

His gaze upon me was always brimming with affection and care.

He would cook delicate soups for me and prepare light-flavored dishes that I adored.

I loved concerts, so he would endure the early morning queues to secure tickets for me, unbothered by the dark circles under his eyes.

After work, he would envelop me in a gentle embrace, holding me close.

He whispered, "Nora, let's have a child of our own someday. I hope she can be as adorable as you."

I yearned for this happiness to continue unfurling like a cherished dream.

Yet, such bliss was ephemeral.

It was soon shattered by the arrival of Ruby, whose parents' death led her back from abroad, disheveled and alone.

Andy, once wholly devoted to me, began to stay away for days on end.

Initially, he would offer explanations. "Nora, I can't watch a movie with you today. Ruby is running a high fever, and the doctor says she's lost the will to live. I must care for her."

Ruby and Andy had grown up together.

He spoke of how her parents had supported him in his youth. Now, with Ruby in distress, he felt compelled to assist, unable to abandon her in her time of need.

I empathized, striving to understand his predicament.

Yet, his concern for Ruby escalated. His thoughts were increasingly consumed by her well-being until he transferred his entire focus away from our shared life.