Chapter: 6

Her back slammed against the headboard, igniting her untreated injuries with unbearable pain.

Tears pooled in her eyes, and the pain made it difficult to breathe.

What was her place, really?

Merely his nominal wife, a pawn for his desires, a stand-in for Ashley?

None of these roles held any true significance.

Alan noticed her bloodshot eyes brimming with tears and realized she was still suffering from her injuries.

He loosened his grip, about to speak, when Lilliana, snapping out of her shock, seized his arm. “Alan, Kaitlin is still hurt! She must be scared after the kidnapping. Please, don't be harsh with her. If hitting me makes her feel any better, I can take it. The worst that could happen is I might have to cancel my upcoming interviews and collaborations."

She looked up at him, her expression one of sincere understanding.

"Let's talk this through."

Alan, managing his irritation, carefully withdrew his hand from hers and spoke softly. "You need rest too. Go home and sleep. I'll sort this out. And don't worry about the work you might miss. I'll find you even better opportunities."

Lilliana nodded, cast a cautious glance at Kaitlin, and left the room with a faint smirk.

Alan's different reactions toward her and Lilliana left Kaitlin feeling colder.

Despite her body being marred with wounds, Alan seemed oblivious.

Yet, at Lilliana's slightest word, his anger dissolved.

It was ridiculous.

After three years of marriage, Kaitlin finally grasped where she stood in Alan's regard.

“Kaitlin, since you're injured, I don't want to argue," Alan stated icily, dropping her back onto the bed. “Don't tell Grandma about this. When you're discharged, you-"

Kaitlin interrupted him, her tone emotionless. "When I'm discharged, we're getting a divorce."

She removed her cherished wedding ring and tossed it at his feet.

“Consider your kindness for saving me repaid over these past three years."

Alan halted, his expression one of stunned disbelief as he stared at the ring.

After a moment, he stepped closer, clenched her wrist tightly, and demanded, “What did you say?!"

“When did you start having trouble hearing?" Kaitlin retorted, allowing him to pull her closer. "I'm done playing this stand-in. Our marriage is over."

Alan's eyes darkened, his features clouded with rage.