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“That was then…”
“So, what has changed for you to be disgusted by your own husband wanting you?”
“Don’t over exaggerate, okay?” I argue, still waiting for a goddamn apology. “Things between us have been hard. You’re always away for work, and you’re barely here for our son.”
“I’m sorry, so I’m being punished for providing for my family?”
I shake my head as a sharp pain hits my temple. The impending headache is worsening, and the last thing I want to do is fake my marriage in front of society.
“I won’t be attending the polo match today.”
“Excuse me?” He tilts his head, eyes widening as his jaw tightens. “You agreed to attend. How will it look if I arrive by myself?”
I push the chair out to then stand still as I look directly into his angry eyes. If Benedict can’t see what he did wrong, then I can’t be anywhere near him and sacrifice my mental health forhissociety’s expectations of our marriage.
“Maybe ask your mother? I’m sure you’d much prefer her company.”
“Can you please stop embarrassing me?” he grits, eyes blazing. “You’re my wife, and you better not forget that, or you’ll pay the consequences.”
He leaves the room before I do, only for the front door to slam and his car to screech against the gravel during my walk up the large staircase.
Back in Bentley’s room, I sit on the floor and play with him while Eliza goes downstairs for breakfast. My racing heart still hasn’t calmed down, tired of this life and the burdens I carry. The flashbacks of last night plague me, and all I want right now is to feel safe again.
When Eliza returns, I kiss Bentley on the forehead, then stand up.
“Eliza, I’m going to run some errands in town. Do you mind watching Bentley today?”
“Of course not, Mrs. Banks. That was the plan anyway.” She smiles at Bentley. “We’re going to feed the ducks today. Have you seen the beautiful black swan at the lake in town?”
I grin, knowing if Andy could hear this, he would be laughing right now.
“Yes, I have,” I drag. “It’s big and black.”
“Beautiful creatures, aren’t they?”
“Sure, from afar.”
We talk more about her plans for the day before I say goodbye to Bentley and head to my shower. Once out, I opt to dress in my white buttoned blouse, olive skirt with knee-high boots. Again, the weather looks cold, so I grab my coat to wear over.
With my phone in hand, I quickly send Andy a text.
Me:Where are you?
Our driver pulls up while waiting for a response since I called him earlier. On the drive to London, Andy finally responds.
Andy:Lobby of The Gilmore Hotel.
Me:I’ll see you soon.
* * *
Andy is standing behind the tripod, his focus on the camera, pressing buttons, but his expression is serious. He runs his hands through his hair, a gesture he does when he’s frustrated and can’t focus.
As I take steps closer toward him, he catches my movement and tells the team he needs to have a break.
Reaching out, he touches my arm with concern. Then, I see him examine my face. Quickly, I drop my eyes, not wanting to break down here, of all places. If he knew what happened last night, he would hunt Benedict down andkillhim. The whole ordeal has left me humiliated, but I bury it all to remain as calm as possible.
“You want to go somewhere?”
