The Real and Pretend Mrs. Smith

Having said that, I swept a dismissive glance over everyone present, including Fiona, then turned and walked towards the elevators inside the building amid a chorus of astonished stares. I addressed the security guard standing by the gate with a sharp tone, "Open it!"

This was the first time I had taken such an assertive stance, and inside I couldn't help but curse bitterly at the disrespect I'd encountered.

As I passed through the gate, I overheard someone whisper, "Who... who is that?"

I looked back at Fiona, still standing there, and asked, "Aren't you here to see your brother? Well, aren't you going up?"

Fiona seemed to snap out of it and instinctively called out, "Sister-in-law..."

Perfect!

Her calling me 'sister-in-law' answered everyone's silent question. I saw Fiona hesitantly make her way inside as I reached out to press the elevator button.

In the elevator, neither of us spoke. Fiona hung her head and sulked against the elevator wall, and I was too frustrated to bother with her. Her brother might indulge her, but I certainly was not in the mood to do so.

Upon reaching George's office, he was indeed in a meeting. When called out, he seemed surprised to see the two of us together, his eyes scanning our faces.

Then he fixed his gaze on me, "Why are you dressed like...?"

"Embarrassed by me, is that it? I just went to the market, what's the big deal?" I interrupted George, well aware of what he was implying. With irritation, I demanded, "Just give me the keys; Angel is still asleep."

George quickly strode back to his desk, rummaged through his handbag, and handed me a bunch of keys, "Didn't I tell you to have her bring them to you?" I took the keys, glancing at Fiona's displeased face, "She doesn't have time to deliver keys to me; playing 'Mrs. Smith' here is more important."

"You better have a good chat with your 'Mrs. Smith'! I certainly can't afford her!" This time I had no intention of sparing Fiona's feelings, "You sure live up to being a brother, giving away the title of 'lady' so generously!"

With that, I turned and walked out briskly, my face stern. I didn't have time for their nonsense; it would be terrible if Angel woke up.

I left the building fuming and took a taxi straight home.

As I opened the door, I realized I was holding a large bunch of keys, two of which seemed new. I examined them, wondering, "Where are these keys from?"