The Man She Lost

Josh made me feel like a princess, showing up after work with a different surprise each day.

Sometimes, it was a bouquet. Other times, my sweet tooth would be in for a treat.

He was always quick to help around the house at home, often saying, “I can’t let my wife overwork herself, can I? Take a break. I’ve got this covered.”

I’d get creative in preparing his lunches, making sure he had a balanced diet of meat and vegetables. I even used cutters to make adorable shapes of his food.

The smile never left his face whenever he was home at night.

“Since the meeting ran late today, I had my lunch in the conference room. Edmund from the other department was completely green with envy when I opened my lunchbox. Apparently, the only food his wife would get him is from takeout.”

I said with a playful pout, “Duh, my husband deserves the best lunch in the world.”

Dragging Josh to the mall, I picked out some well-made clothes for him that were made to last.

My eyes sparkled as Josh tried on new things.

“As expected, you look amazing in everything. This piece, especially, makes you look fit and lean.”

I ran my hands over his abs and gushed, “This outfit is made for you. You look so good!”

Each time Josh and I attended social events with his friends or colleagues, I made sure to dress up and behave in a way that reflected well on him.

When the conversation turned to work or life, I would stare at Josh with pride and admiration.

“You’ll have to ask my husband. He’s the expert.

“He’s the glue that holds the family together. I don’t have wild ambitions. I’m just there to support him.”

Friends often teased that Josh married his number one fan.

He’d pull me closer with a smile, the proud look on his face visible for all to see.

At first, Josh couldn’t get used to my open affection and constant adoration.

There were times he’d shyly tell me to take it down a notch.

However, it didn’t take him long to get hooked on being needed and depended on.

Josh didn’t stop at wiring his monthly paycheck to my bank account. He’d even transfer bonuses or incentives from wrapping up a project successfully.

“A little something for the lovely missus. Don’t worry about the money. Just treat yourself.

“Spend what you need to. You deserve the best.”

…

I stared at my bank balance, my eyes sparkling. In the past, I could never dream about getting my hands on 50,000 dollars a month.

It was my cue to lay on the charm. “I feel bad because you work so hard to earn your keep. I’ll be sure to spend wisely.

True to my word, I spent every penny.

The designer bag I’d been eyeing? I went ahead and bought it.

The jewelry piece that caught my eye? Bought it.

High-end skincare? Done.

Meanwhile, Cassidy’s quest to bag a billionaire husband hadn’t been quite successful.

Leveraging her looks and tactics, Cassidy befriended several rich heirs and tagged along to upscale venues.

Her social media remained a highlight reel of luxury goods and extravagant dinners as she bounced from one high-end party to the next.

While these wealthy heirs showered her with lavish gifts, they would never introduce her at important family gatherings or important events.

Whenever she dropped hints about a future or commitment together, these men would shut her down by changing the subject with a joke or buying her a more expensive bag.

Over time, Cassidy’s photos started to reveal the strain behind the glamor. Beneath the flawless makeup lay a forced smile and weary eyes.

I shared a photo of our family picnic at the park. The moment couldn’t be sweeter.

Cassidy left a bitter comment. “You have no shame to pick up my unwanted junk, Talia.”

“I’d be happy to pick up a few more like Josh.”

I posted a loving picture of Josh and me on social media.

“Oh, wow. Even nannies have upgraded to include bed services.”

I replied to her comment in composure, “Exactly. Thank you for the opportunity, Cass. I’m lucky to be my husband’s all-in-one nanny. :)”

Then, I posted a shot of Josh carrying Teddie on his shoulders, their faces beaming with pure joy.