My Husband Faked His Death For His Mistress

Talia

David's funeral was held three days later. I ensured that it was a grand affair, organising every detail meticulously, even going as far as to contact all of his colleagues, old classmates and business partners personally.

On the day of his funeral, under the gazes of everyone, the bags under my eyes were dark, my eyes swollen and red and my voice was hoarse as I gave my speech and greeted every guest with forced smiles.

I wore clothes that made me look thinner than normal, gaining looks of sympathy from even the lowest of staff. They all praised me for being strong, clearly moved by my actions.

The exception to this was his family.

They avoided me throughout which raised suspicions that were quickly diverted by my grieving act. I knew that they were waiting for an opportunity to corner me.

True enough, immediately after the ceremony I headed home and washed up. Claire, my trusted servant, told me that David's family had arrived at the mansion.

Taking a deep breath, I looked over at myself, ensuring that my makeup remained intact and the eye drops' teary effects were still working before I moved.

Sitting haughtily in the living room, David's mother, father and cousin were waiting for me. As soon as they saw my devastated face, I could clearly see the smugness in their expressions. They quickly tried to hide it, putting on veiled expressions.

I spotted the luggage packed waiting at the doorway but didn't say anything.

Gazing at them, I kept my expression shaken.

“Mother in law, father in law, little sister, what are you all doing here?” I asked

“Do we not have a right to come into our son's home?” my mother in law, Ellen, snapped at me. I flinched openly pursing my lips.

“I’m sorry, mother. It's just that we haven't even spoken throughout the funeral.”

Her face turned smug again and I caught it.

“And what does it matter?” Jackson, my father in law, huffed, “We didn't speak to you back then because there were outsiders involved.”

“I...understand,” I said timidly, “What do you need?”

Their smiles rose and I knew that they were ready to play their cards. I had cowered long enough to give them a false sense of security. Now they wouldn't hesitate.

“Talia, I know that you must be devastated after David's death. In truth, we all are.” Ellen came forward, her face taking on a heartbroken look.

“Family is meant to support each other at this time. That's what we came here to do.”

She turned to Jackson and Renee for a moment, a silent understanding taking place between them before she moved forward to take my hands.

“You see," she began, "I and your father In law have been growing older and with this sudden event... I don't think that we are meant to be alone. Servants' care can't be compared to that of family. Renee is about to graduate from college soon too and we need someone to help take care of us. Before, David used to help with all of this but now...”

“Mother in law, tell me what you want.” I interrupted her. For a brief moment, there was a look of disdain that she quickly replaced with the previous look before she continued.

“From today onwards we'll move into this place. Here, you can take care of us more properly. Don't worry, you'll still deal with the company on your own, but I believe that with David gone, you can't stay in such a lonely mansion alone. By taking care of us, you'd be helping David too. Family is meant to support each other. It's what David would have wanted right?”

I inwardly sneered.

What a nice way to state that she wanted me to become a live-in maid for them. She'd mentioned support, but hadn't stated anything for me. Their intentions were too blatant.

They truly thought I was a fool, blinded enough by grief to accept.

Putting on a closed off look, I slipped my hands away from hers.

“Mother. I'm sorry.”

Her face fell.

“What do you mean?”

“With all of these new developments, this place wouldn't be good to stay in. I think it's best to not trouble you. You all are best suited in the family mansion.”

I knew that they wouldn't accept it. The Hayes family mansion was small compared to this home, bought with my dowry for David and I to live in after marriage. I could tell the awe and greed in their eyes every time they came. They wanted this place for themselves.

“Brienne. Don't forget that you're the daughter in law of this family.” Jackson stood up drowning

“I understand father-in-law,” I gently held Ellen's hands, "That's why I think this is what is best. I know how much you want to care for me, but this place is full of his memories. I'm afraid that it'll be hard for you to bear. It's better that I handle this alone.”

Under my kindness, they couldn't refuse. As I expected, his mother who was angered at my refusal moments ago was now speechless.

I blinked away tears.

“I remember that David used to visit you constantly. I'll do my best to visit as well. Don't worry. You can leave this home and the company to me.

“Are you stupid!”

I looked up as Renee, his cousin stood, pointing at me infuriated. Before anyone could block her she reached up and slapped me. My body stumbled back, my hair covering my face.

“How dare you refuse us? David has taken care of you and tolerated you through your barrenness, yet you dare refuse us? When he comes back-”

“Renee!” my father in law cut her off and she paled, realising what she said.

My smile, hidden from sight grew as a twinge of disappointment soon faded away.