My Husband Used Me As His Surrogate

I unexpectedly gained an ability to hear my husband's inner thoughts.

"Vivienne, happy anniversary. You will always be my one and only, my guiding star," Azrael said on our first anniversary, pouring out his emotions. But his thoughts told a different story:

"Don't worry, darling. No matter how tempting the distractions may be, you'll always be my mainstay."

My smile wavered. Was he thinking about keeping his options open?

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"Hey babe, are you coming home tonight?"

After sending the text via WhatsApp, I freshened up from my sleepy morning.

His reply arrived a few minutes later, "Sorry, love, I'm buried at work. I definitely can't get home early today."

Disappointment swept over me. "I understand. Just make sure you eat and rest. Don't overdo it, okay?"

"You're amazing, love. I'll wrap things up here and get home as soon as I can. Stay sweet and wait for me."

A notification buzzed with an incoming transfer of 1,000 pounds, along with Azrael's thoughtful note: "Happy anniversary, love. I can't be with you today, so take your best friend shopping and have some fun."

My spirits lifted a little.

After quickly accepting the money, I called Megan for a shopping spree.

I didn't drive my car today. Missing Azrael, I took his, hoping to feel a bit closer to him.

While at the movies with Megan, I took a bathroom break and overheard a familiar name:

"Azrael, let's go."

I froze, crouching low for a peek, and saw a familiar silhouette.

Wasn't that Azrael, my husband?

I watched him sling a girl's bag over his shoulder and hug her as they laughed and headed toward the elevator.

I couldn't see the girl's face.

Keeping a safe distance, I followed them discreetly. As the elevator doors closed, I noticed Azrael inside.

Wasn't he supposed to be on a business trip? How was he here, and who was that woman?

Distracted, I wrapped up the day with Megan and trudged home, exhausted.

When I flipped on the lights, I was taken aback.

Rose petals traced a path forward, heart-shaped candles illuminated the living room, and "Happy First Anniversary" was emblazoned across the wall.

"Darling, you're finally home. Come and try the dinner I prepared with love," Azrael said, taking my hand and leading me to the table, slipping a Victorian-style gold necklace into my palm.

"Do you like it, sweetheart? It's my gift for our anniversary."

With thoughts of the earlier incident swirling in my mind, I forced a smile and said, "I love it."

After fastening the necklace around my neck, Azrael sat across from me.

I scrutinized his face, my smile slightly fading. "Weren't you busy with work? How did you manage to get back now?"

He reached out, holding my hand. "Silly, how could I not be with you on such an important day as our anniversary? I rushed back home while you were out with Megan to set everything up—hoping to surprise you."

Caressing my face tenderly, he said, "Vivienne, happy anniversary. You'll always be the brightest light in my life."

Feeling bashful, I turned my gaze slightly, ready to respond when his inner thoughts intruded:

"Rest assured, darling, no matter how appealing the distractions are, you'll always be number one in my heart."

My smile froze. Was he considering keeping his options open after all?