My Husband was the Best Villain in our Marriage novel
I was also the woman loved and protected for five years by Erving Pollock, the heir who owned half the resources of New Yorks entertainment industry.
To win my heart, he once stood in the pouring rain for hours, nearly losing his life shielding me from an obsessed fans attack.
When I won Best Actress, he was in the audience with reddened eyes, clapping the hardest, looking even more emotional than I was.
I thought that kind of love would last forever. But then Anya Heffernan came into the picture.
She was a painter who got hit by a car saving Erving. And just like that, she became the third party in our relationship.
He started skipping the candlelit dinners I planned just so he could accompany her to the movies.
He gave her the scarf I had stayed up all night knitting, just because she said she was cold.
Even when she spilled coffee on my haute couture dress, he rushed to comfort her, leaving me behind.
Whenever I felt wronged and complained, he would always bring up that car accident, making me feel like I was overreacting.
One day, headlines blew up the entire internet.
[Painter Anya Heffernans latest piece, inspired by a mysterious nude actress, stuns the auction world!]
Only then did the fragile calm I had been clinging to completely shatter.
The woman in the painting was half-lying on the bed, her skin fair as snow, completely exposed. Her hair hid her face, but the familiar curves of her bodyand the mole on her shoulder and neck that only I haveall silently declared to the world that the figure in the painting was me.
The only person who could have gotten hold of my nude photos and let Anya use my body for attention was Erving.
My phone shook uncontrollably in my hand. In just one hour, the hashtag [#MandyNudePortraitModel] had skyrocketed to the top of the trending list. The comments poured in like a tidal wave, full of crude, vulgar speculation.
Those same people who once praised my elegance were now digging through my private life with filthy words.
My face went pale. Pain twisted my chest until it felt impossible to breathe. I stumbled out of the house and drove straight to Ervings company.
When I pushed open the office door, Anya was sitting on the couch, pouting proudly.
Erving, did you see it? My painting finally went viral!
Erving stroked her hair affectionately. Thats because youre a talented painter.
He didnt even mention that shed used my body as her subject. When he noticed me, he barely looked up. What are you doing here? Its cold outside. Wear something warm.
That painting, I said, my voice shaking, each word forced out through clenched teeth. Did you tell her to paint it?
He frowned, stubbed out his cigarette, and rose as if to pull me into his arms. But I shoved him away with all my strength.
Annoyance flickered across his face before he masked it with his usual soothing tone. Mandy, dont make a scene. Anyas dream has always been to become a great artist, but no one paid attention to her work. I just helped her a little.
Helped her? I laughed, but my tears spilled over before I could stop them. You call that help? Using my body? Erving, what do you think I ama prop for you to flaunt whenever you guys want?
Youre overreacting. He frowned even more. Your face isnt in the painting. No one can prove its you. The hype will die down in a few days. Anya stayed up nights working on that painting. Cant you just show a little understanding?
That sentence was like a knife, piercing my heart violently.
I looked at the man in front of me and remembered how he had chased me five years ago.
Back then, his eyes were full of me. But now, his indifference and cruelty were just as real.
I wiped my tears and made my decision. Erving, were getting a divorce.
His face darkened instantly. The air around him seemed to thicken. He stepped forward and gripped my wrist so hard I thought he might break my bones.
Divorce? Mandy, dont forgetyour mom is still staying in the hospital under my name. The doctors, the equipment, everything thereyou owe that to me. If you leave, her treatment
Erving!
I widened my eyes in terror, unable to believe he would threaten me with my mom!
Her heart condition had always been my weakness. For years, I had relied entirely on his resources for her treatment. I never imagined that dependence would become the very chain he would use to control me.
His grip tightened. His gaze was dark and obsessive. Behave, Mandy. Dont push me.
A cold dread washed over me. I felt myself falling into a bottomless pit, realizing that no matter how I struggled, I was already trapped in his web.
At that moment of my despair, my phone vibrated violently.
Maam! Somethings wrong! Your mother just had a heart attack. Shes in critical condition!
My mind went blank. Im coming! Tell the doctors to save her! Do whatever it takes!
Erving frowned and started to follow me out. Just as he was about to tell the driver to prepare the car, Anya collapsed into his arms, crying, Erving, I feel dizzy It must be the aftereffects from the car accident
He immediately scooped her up. Get a doctor! Im taking Anya to the hospital!
When I arrived alone at my moms hospital room, a nurse shook her head apologetically.
Im sorry, Maam. All the doctors were called away by Sir Erving to attend to Maam Anya. Your mother missed the critical treatment window.
My knees buckled. I fell to the floor, staring blankly toward the doorway.
There, Erving was helping Anya out of a room, murmuring, Good thing it was just low blood sugar.
Not a single trace of concern for my mother showed on his face, only care and tenderness for his other woman.
At that moment, I swore, the last spark of love I had for him died completely.
That night, back at the villa, I opened an old, unread email.
It was from my former university mentor, a renowned Hollywood director. He invited me to fly to London in ten days to play the lead in his new film and stay there to continue my career.
I had hesitated before because of Erving. Now, I didnt hesitate at all. With certainty, I accepted the invitation.
In ten days, I would announce my retirement from the industry and leave behind this city that had once made me love so deeply and hurt me more than I ever thought possible.
The next day, I went to see Erving with the divorce papers in hand. He was busy helping Anya plan her art exhibition.
He personally handled even the smallest detailsproof enough of how much she meant to him.
I placed the document on his desk. Without even glancing at it, he picked up his pen and signed his name.
As I took the papers back, my chest tightened painfully. I clenched my fists and said coldly, Erving, my mom is gone. All because of you
I know. He cut me off without looking up. Anya suddenly felt dizzy that day. It was an emergency. I didnt have a choice.
He said it so casually, as if the person who died wasnt his mother-in-law but some stranger who had nothing to do with him.
Then he added, You can fill in any amount you want for compensation. If its not enough, let me know.
I froze, staring at him in disbelief.
So thats what he thoughtI came here for money?
In his mind, my mothers life could be erased and replaced by a few numbers on a check?
Before I could speak, the office door opened softly.
Anya walked in.
The moment he saw her, Erving stood up and hurried over to steady her, his tone instantly gentle. Why didnt you wait for me in the studio? Dont come over here by yourself again.
Then he turned back to me, introducing her as naturally as if we were all family. Ive decided to have Anya move into the villa. Shes not in good health. Itll be easier for me to take care of her if shes close by.
In an instant, my blood turned to ice.
I remembered years ago when he bought that villa, holding my hand as we walked through every room. Hed smiled and said, This is the home I built for us. Everythings arranged the way you like it. Only you, me, and your mom will live here.
And now, he was bringing in the woman indirectly responsible for my mothers death!
What if I say no? I asked.
His expression darkened immediately. He instinctively pulled Anya behind him. Mandy, why are you being so petty? Anya saved my life. If she hadnt pushed me out of the way back then, I wouldve been the one in the hospital. Shes sick now. Whats wrong with letting her stay here?
Right on cue, Anyas eyes reddened. She even pretended to leave. Erving, am I causing trouble? Maybe I should just go back to the studio. Ill be fine on my own.
Dont go. He stopped her and shot me a sharp glare filled with disappointment. How far are you going to push her? I dont need your permission for this, Mandy.
Then, he turned to his assistant. James, go prepare a room.
With that, he led Anya away. As they brushed past me, I caught the fleeting smirk at the corner of her lips.
When I returned to the villa, there was already a suitcase sitting in the entrywayhers.
I pretended not to notice and went straight to my moms old room.
I wanted to look through her belongings. But the moment I stepped in, I realized the amethyst necklace from her bedside table was missing.
That necklace had been a gift from my dad, a symbol of their love. Mom had worn it until the day she died. It meant everything to her.
I looked for the personal assistant. He hesitated before reporting, This afternoon, only Maam Anya went into that room. She said she wanted to look at Maam Georgias things for artistic inspiration.
Before he could finish, I was already heading for the living room.
There she was, sitting gracefully on the couch, her fingers stroking the amethyst necklace now resting against her neck. She smiled brightly. Erving, this necklace is beautiful. It suits me perfectly.
Give it back to me! I shouted, rushing over and reaching for it.
But Erving moved fast, shoving me away before I could lay a finger on that woman.
The impact made me stumble and crash into the coffee table, pain shooting through my elbow.
He held Anya protectively in his arms, glaring at me. What the hell are you doing?!
Anya flinched, her eyes filling with tears. Mandy, Im sorry I just thought the necklace had an artistic feel. I didnt mean to take it. Ill give it back right now
She started to remove it, but Erving stopped her hand.
No need. He frowned at me, irritation flashing in his eyes, tinged with contempt. Its just a necklace. The diamond ones Ive bought you cost far more than this. Mandy, do you really have to act so greedy and fight with Anya over it?
Then, he remembered the divorce papers earlier that morning, his tone grew even colder. I already signed your settlement. If the moneys not enough, just say so. Now, stop embarrassing yourself here.
I stood there frozen, tears spilling down uncontrollably.
In the past, he wouldve dropped everything to comfort me. But now, he didnt even glance my way.
He just took Anyas hand and led her upstairs.
His final words were brutal. Dont be afraid. With me here, she wont dare do anything.
The vast living room felt unbearably empty.
From upstairs came that familiar gentle coaxing voice of his, only this time, the one he was comforting wasnt me.
I reached into my pocket and caressed the divorce papers, then slowly closed my eyes.
Thank god, I thought, Just nine more days, and Ill finally be free.
After that day, I grew colder toward Erving.
Even though we lived under the same roof, I barely acknowledged him anymore, no matter how many times he tried to start a conversation.
Then one morning, he suddenly came to me and said the arrangements for my mothers funeral were finalized.
The early wind was sharp and cold, pressing the fabric of my plain dress tightly against my legs.
I stared at the black car parked in front of me, my voice came out rough and faint when I asked, The cemetery and the ceremony Is everything really settled?
Erving walked over and adjusted my scarf for me, his tone unnaturally gentle. Dont worry. Everythings set. Today, were just meeting a few elders to go over the details and to thank your mothers old friends. She deserves a dignified farewell.
I clenched my fists and slid into the car without another word.
Outside the window, the scenery began to grow unfamiliarquiet streets gave way to the glittering lights of the city center. We were moving farther and farther away from the direction of the cemetery.
A bad feeling surged through me. I was about to ask when the car came to a stop.
In front of me stood the massive glass fa?ade of the New York County Museum of Art, its walls covered with a towering poster.
On it, Anya smiled radiantly in a flowing white dress. Behind her was the silhouette of that nude paintingthe one that had destroyed my reputation. Printed below in bold letters were the words [Anya Heffernan Solo Exhibition].
Erving! My voice cracked as I turned to him in disbelief. This isnt the place for a funeral arrangement! You lied to me?!
He unbuckled his seatbelt slowly, his earlier gentleness gone, leaving only a cold, matter-of-fact tone. Anyas exhibit is critical to her career. It could affect future business partnerships. You showing up would draw more attention.
It felt like Id just heard the cruelest joke in the world. Tears stung my eyes before I could stop them.
Draw attention? You mean parading my humiliation for her benefit? My voice shook. You know damn well who she painted! My mother isnt even buried yet, and you tricked me into attending the art exhibit of the woman who killed her?
Just shut up! His brows furrowed, voice hardening as he grabbed my wrist. I know what Im doing with the funeral. Dont make a scene here.
His grip was painfully tight. I struggled, but he dragged me inside half by force.
The moment we stepped into the exhibition hall, the noise and flashing lights stung my eyes.
Anya approached at once, dressed in the same color palette as Erving, her skirt swaying gracefully. Her gaze carried a barely concealed triumph.
Erving immediately let go of me and strode toward her. He placed a hand on her arm and said with concern, Why are you dressed so lightly? Arent you cold?
Not at all, she replied sweetly. You picked this dress for me. Id wear it even if it snowed.
As she spoke, her eyes flicked toward my pale face, and a smirk tugged at her lips.
I stood frozen, pain spreading quietly through my chest.
Years ago, when I wore an off-shoulder dress to my first film festival, Erving had glared from the audience. Afterward, he wrapped me in his coat and carried me to the car, scolding, Youre never wearing something that revealing again.
Back then, his eyes were full of me. Now, they saw no one but Anya.
Before I could even process that cruel contrast, reporters swarmed around me, microphones nearly brushing my face.
Mandy, your mother hasnt been buried yet, but you came to Anyas art exhibit. Are you confirming you were the model for her painting?
Mandy, seeing how much Mr. Pollock favors Anya, does this mean your position as his wife is at risk?
Did you volunteer to pose nude for her? Are you really as open as the rumors say?
Their shameless questions cut into me like salt poured over a wound.
I opened my mouth to say Id been tricked here. But before I could, Erving grabbed my wrist.
He pulled me closer, addressing the press with calm detachment. Its just family support. Please dont overinterpret it. Mandy has just suffered a loss; her emotions are unstable. Lets keep the focus on the exhibition.
Then he released me and turned away, greeting businessmen with that polite smile of his. His arm slid naturally around Anyas shoulders as he introduced, This is Anya Heffernan, one of the most gifted young painters Ive ever met.
The crowd around them erupted with compliments. Anya leaned shyly into Erving, looking every bit like his wife.
I was left standing there, looking the most awkward person in the room.
Some people pointed at me and gossiped, their mocking laughter sharp in my ears.
Finally, I couldnt bear it anymore. I strode forward, grabbed Ervings sleeve, and hissed, Erving, thats enough! You tricked me here to make a fool of meis this fun for you? Im leaving!
In an instant, his smile froze. When he turned to me, his eyes were already cold.
He shook off my hand violently. I stumbled backward, slamming into a display rack. I gasped as pain shot through me.
Have you lost your mind? he snapped. Nothing can go wrong at Anyas exhibit!
Anya hurried over, pretending to help me up. But as she leaned close, she whispered, Bitch, just face it. The only person in his heart now is me.
Then, with a quiver in her voice, she turned to Erving, her eyes misty. Erving, maybe I shouldnt have held this exhibit. Should I end it now? I dont want to upset her...
This has nothing to do with you, he said at once, shielding her behind him.
I stared at the sight of him protecting her, and at that moment, the tears Id been holding back finally broke free.
My lips trembled into a bitter smile. Erving What do you even see me as? If that love we had was ever real, then Im begging you, let me go. Let me keep at least a shred of my dignity.
The moment the words left my lips, Ervings expression changed.
He strode toward me and grabbed my wrist. His grip wasnt as tight as before, but his voice carried a trace of panic.
Dont say things you dont mean. My love for you was never fake
My heart fluttered.
It was the first time since the nude painting incident that hed shown even the slightest hint of vulnerability.
But the next second, his eyes flicked past me to Anya standing behind me. Just like that, his brows knitted once more.
Anyas holding her first exhibit today. Your words just now made her tear up. Cant you give her a break?
Then, the warmth Id felt vanished instantly.
I forced a smile, but before I could speak, a ripple of gasps ran through the exhibition hall.
People were stepping back in panic. Someone shouted, The scaffoldings collapsing!
I looked up. The temporary display scaffolding was tilting, ready to topple. Several unsecured oil paintings teetered at the top. The sharp wooden beams were crashing straight toward Anya and me!
Time slowed. I saw Anya scream and stumble backward in fear, and Erving pivot almost instinctively.
Even though I was right in front of him, he spun toward Anya instead, wrapping his arms around her. He used his back as a shield from the falling scaffolding.
A heavy thud followed.
The beam scraped his shoulder and slammed onto me.
The next second, pain erupted through my body. My vision instantly went black. And just before darkness swallowed me, the last thing I saw was Erving, bending over and soothing Anya.
He didnt even look at me.
I had a dream.
I was back years ago when a deranged fan had kidnapped me and dragged me to a warehouse in the suburbs.
Erving had come alone to save me. In that split second when the man was distracted, he lunged for the knife.
In the chaos, the blade cut his leg. Blood soaked through his trousers, but he held me tight, his voice trembling yet unwavering.
Dont be scared. Im here.
Ever since, he carried that scar on his leg.
Every time I touched it, hed smile and say, From now on, matter what happens, Ill always come running to you without any hesitation.
For you, even if it costs my life, its worth it, he added.
The warmth of that memory lingered on my fingertips as I woke to the cold hospital ceiling above me.
A second later, pain spread through my body like shattered bones.
Those promises from the dream felt like they belonged to another lifetime.
I reached for my phone on the nightstand. The moment the screen lit open, notifications flooded in.
[#ErvingPollockRisksLifeToProtectAnyaHeffernan]
[#MandyEisenmanTheNudePortraitMuseInjuredAndIgnored]
I opened the trending page, only to find cruel comments.
[No one saved her even after she got hit. Poor woman, thats just tragic.]
[Wasnt that nude painting just for attention? Now, is she faking getting injured for publicity?]
[Erving clearly doesnt care about her. He only remembered she exists after saving Anya? Damn.]
I dug my nails into my palms and closed my eyes.
Just when I opened them, the hospital door creaked open.
Erving stepped in carrying a small bag containing food. Seeing I was awake, he paused.
His voice came out apologetic. Youre awake. The doctor says your back is bruised. Youll need to rest for a while.
He set the bag on the bedside table, adding, Yesterday was chaotic. Anya was trembling all over. I had to get her somewhere safe first, so I wasnt able to check on you right away.
I looked at him and let out a quiet laughlight but with a chill that couldnt be shaken.
Check on me? Come on, Erving, youre just worried that if I die, Anya will lose her muse, right?
He froze. When he realized what I meant, his expression darkened immediately.
He reached for my face, as if to caress it, saying, Mandy, dont say that
But I jerked my head away, dodging his hand.
His arm froze midair, and the air in the hospital room went completely still.
After a long, tense silence, Erving finally let out a sigh.
He opened the bag and pulled a wrapped sandwich, placing it carefully in front of me.
In a gentle tone, he said, Eat something first. I made this especially for you. You havent had a thing all day.
When I didnt move, he added, Dont take it out on your body. Ive set your moms funeral for the day after tomorrow. The cemetery spot she liked, the sunny one she once mentioned; Ive gone over every detail. Everything I promised, Ill make sure it happens.
At the mention of my mom, the tension in my back finally eased slightly.
I closed my eyes, swallowing the rage in my chest, and took the bowl.
The funeral day was gray and overcast.
Dressed in black, I stood at my moms grave, clutching a white chrysanthemum. Tears welled in my eyes, and grief weighed heavily on my face.
The wind lifted my skirt and ruffled the hair at Ervings forehead.
He stayed by my side the entire time, greeting guests while still keeping an eye on me. Everyone said I had married a good man.
I forced a smile; it didnt reach my eyes.
Then, the sound of hurried footsteps shattered the quiet.
I turned and saw a swarm of reporters charging in, cameras flashing like lightning in the solemn cemetery.
Mr. Pollock! Are the photos of you kissing Anya Heffernan in the hotel hallway real?
Mandy! Did your husband turn to Anya because of your nude portrait scandal?
Sir, youre at your mother-in-laws funeral while rumors swirl about you and another woman. Arent you worried about what people will say?
Their sharp questions hit all at once. My eyes widened as I turned to Erving.
His face went stone pale, and he raised his hand, demanding, Guards! Get them out! Who let them in? he barked.
In the chaos, Anya ran in, her eyes red. She grabbed my wrist.
Mandy, please dont blame Erving. I was drugged. He was just trying to make sure I wasnt harmed
Its none of your business! Erving stepped forward, putting her behind him. His voice shook with urgency. Mandy, she was a victim, too. Dont put this on her
A victim?
I stared at him shielding her, at the guilt in his eyes. A bitter laugh escaped me.
Even though I had expected this, the pain still stole my breath.
When I was in the hospital, barely able to move without screaming in pain when my mother hadnt even been buried you were in a hotel room with her? Erving, is that what you mean by returning the favor to that woman?
His shoulders stiffened, his eyes flicking away from mine. I didnt have a choice. Anya She was drugged. I couldnt let anyone else touch her
So you touched her yourself? I stepped closer, right in front of him, my voice shaking but every word sharp and clear. Erving, look at my moms grave and tell medid you or did you not touch Anya?
The reporters kept snapping photos, the bodyguards were shouting to hold them back, but I only had eyes for him.
I waited for him to deny it; even a lie would have been enough.
I just wanted, in front of my mother, to give her a little dignity.
But Ervings lips parted. His throat moved as he swallowed hard, then he muttered, Mandy, Im sorry. I I have to take responsibility for her.
I froze. The words hit like a hammer, shattering my heart.
I remembered the scar he got saving me years ago.
I remembered him promising, From now on, no matter what happens, Ill come running to you without any hesitation.
I remembered him holding my hand at my moms sickbed, promising to care for me for life.
All those memories, the ones that once made my heart race, now felt like the cruelest joke.
I shoved him away, pointing at my moms grave. I couldnt stop the tears in my eyes, but I managed to firmly say, Erving. Youve tainted my moms funeral and destroyed everything we ever had! From today on, its over between us!
With that, I turned and walked away.
From the day of my moms funeral, I had moved into a hotelanything to keep Erving completely out of my life.
I blocked every way he could reach me, thinking that would finally sever the ties between us. But no matter how many times I cut him off, he always found new numbers to text me from. And every message carried the same pleading words.
[Mandy, I know I messed up. Please come back. Ill make it up to you, I promise. Just forgive me this once, okay?]
I didnt even have the energy to open them. I would just glance at the preview, then turn off my phone.
Those delayed apologies had long since lost their meaningburied along with my mom under the cold gravestone, scattered across countless sleepless nights when I tossed and turned, wondering how everything had gone so wrong.
A few days later, it was finally time for me to leave.
The hotel curtains were drawn tight, shutting out all sunlight. I went through my luggage one last time, carefully tucking my passport and plane ticket into my bag. When my fingers touched the unfamiliar destination printed on the ticket, a small, cautious sense of relief finally stirred inside me.
Then my phone vibrated again. A new number flashed on the screen. I didnt need to look; I knew exactly who it wasErving.
I took a deep breath, about to hit mute, when the door suddenly burst open with a deafening bang.
He stormed in, eyes bloodshot, his coat carrying the chill of the night. In one swift movement, he pinned me against the wall. His hand clamped hard around my throat, cutting off my air, while his hoarse, furious voice tore through the room.
Anyas been kidnapped! Did you do it?!
I struggled to pry his fingers away, gasping, my voice barely audible. I didnt
Didnt? He laughed, sharp and bitter, as if I had just told the most absurd lie. Then he slammed his phone down in front of me.
The screen showed a video. A man pressed a knife to Anyas face, shouting brutally, Mandy sent us! She said to break your hands, slash your facelets see how you steal her man then!
The clip ended in seconds, but Ervings rage did not. He yanked me forward by the collar. His eyes were terrifyingly bloodshot, as if he wanted to devour me alive.
Still pretending? If anything happens to Anya, I swear, Mandy, youll die with her!
The hatred in his eyes was so absolute that my heart already full of countless wounds, gave up.
I summoned all my strength to retort, Why would I kidnap her? Erving, after everything between us, do you really think Id stoop that low? You actually believe her over me?
Who else am I supposed to believe?!
He sneered, cold and humorless, and shoved me hard to the floor.
My back slammed against the corner of the table. Pain shot up my spine, stealing my breath. Tears stung my eyes, but not from the pain.
It was from the man standing before methe man who once vowed to protect me for lifenow refusing even to hear me.
He didnt spare me a glance as he walked toward the door, threatening me. Im going to find Anya. If you even think about running, you wont be able to handle the consequences!
The door slammed shut behind him, and silence settled over the room again.
I lay on the cold floor, staring at the chandelier above. Tears rolled silently down my cheeks, soaking the carpet, leaving faint, dark stains.
That afternoon, two men in black suits burst into the room. Before I could react, they grabbed my arms and dragged me out.
I kicked, struggled, and begged. But they were far too strong. I was shoved into a car and driven back to the one place I swore I would never enter again: Ervings villa.
As soon as I stepped in, I heard Anyas tearful voice echoing from the living room.
Erving was sitting on the couch beside her, gently holding her hand. His thumb traced the band-aid on her wrist. His voice was soft and carefullike speaking too loudly might shatter her.
It was a tenderness I had never seen before.
Does it hurt? The doctor said its just a scrape, thank God.
When Anya looked up and saw me, her crying grew louder. Erving, please dont be mad at Mandy. I know she didnt mean it
Didnt mean it?
Ervings head snapped toward me. The softness on his face and voice vanished instantly, replaced by a cold fury that cut straight through me.
You were bold enough to do it, but now, youre denying it?
He nodded to the guards. Just like that, they pinned me to the floor. My knees hit the hardwood with a sharp crack, pain shooting up my legs until I went numb.
Erving picked up a solid wooden stick from beside him and walked step by step to me, his voice without any warmth.
The kidnappers said you wanted to destroy Anyas hands so she could never paint again. Maybe its time you learned what happens when you touch something you shouldnt.
I didnt!
I looked at him, my eyes still holding the last shred of ridiculous hope.
Erving! Cant you believe me just once? Check the hotel security footage. Ask the staff. I havent left my room in days! You wont even look for proof! Just based on that womans claims, youre going to punish me?!
He said nothing. He only lifted the stick.
The very next second, the wooden stick slammed down hard onto my right hand.
Pain exploded through my hand. My whole body shook. Sweat drenched my clothes. I bit my lip hard enough to taste blood. But I didnt cry. I just stared at him, refusing to look away.
There was no hesitation in his face. No trace of pity, only deep coldness.
It was as if I were nothing more than an enemy, not the woman he once held like she was precious.
When he raised the stick again, Anya tugged on his sleeve. Erving, stop. Please. If you keep hitting her, something terrible might happen
Finally, he lowered his hand. He tossed the stick aside and crouched in front of me.
Remember this, he warned. If you ever hurt Anya again, Ill make sure you lose your other hand, too.
By the time I was taken to the hospital, my right hand was swollen twice its normal size. Every slight touch on the misaligned bones sent waves of agony.
The doctor quickly set my hand with a splint and was about to explain the follow-up treatment when Erving called, and I was whisked away.
He said Anya was too shaken to sleep and needed someone to watch over her through the night.
So the doctor left. The room fell silent again, so silent I could hear my own steady breaths.
With my uninjured left hand, I slowly pulled my bag from under the pillow. Inside were my passport and plane ticketmy only chance to escape.
My right hand throbbed with pain, each movement sending sharp jolts through my bones, but I forced myself to ignore it. Leaning on the wall for support, I pushed myself upright and took it step by step out of the hospital until eventually, I hailed a cab to the airport.
By the time I arrived, the sun was sinking, painting the sky in orange and reda beauty so breathtaking it brought tears to my eyes.
I clutched my ticket and walked toward the gate. Before boarding, I glanced back at the city one last time.
This place had held five years of love. It had seen me rise from obscurity to stardom, where Id earned everything I once took pride in. But more than that, it had left me scarredfull of pain I could never forget.
Soon, the boarding announcement sounded. I took a deep breath and stepped onto the plane.
From that moment on, Erving, Anya, and New York, the city that had hurt me so deeplyall became a past I would never return to.
Download the NovelShort app, Search 【 589135 】reads the whole book.
My Fiction
NovelShort
Booklite« Previous Post
After Their Betrayal, My Revenge Began novel