Part 2Love, Hate, and Farewell

Later that night, as we were getting ready for bed, Nick emerged from the bathroom, a towel wrapped around his waist, his hair still damp. He was an incredibly disciplined man. Despite his demanding work schedule, he never skipped a workout, maintaining a lean, muscular physique. He was tall, with handsome features that could rival any movie star.

There was a time when I was completely captivated by his looks.

But now, the moment the door opened, I silently turned off my phone and closed my eyes.

I felt the mattress dip beside me, his hot breath ghosting across my ear.

"Anna, are you asleep?" His voice was deep, heavy with desire.

As his fingers began to explore, I opened my eyes and pressed his hand down. "I'm a little tired today."

He froze for a second, his voice tight with frustration. "You're tired every day."

"Yes," I said, pushing his hand away and pulling the covers tighter around me. "I've been getting tired easily lately. I'm sorry."

He was silent for a long time, unmoving. I let out a sigh of relief and prepared to drift off.

But then, he spoke into the darkness.

"You don't have to be like this."

I was half-asleep. "Like what?"

A low, cold laugh. "This act you've been putting on lately, in public and in private. It's all because of Sylvia, isn't it?"