2
I regained consciousness the following day.
An ominous feeling settled over me. I lifted the covers to discover a surgical incision across my stomach.
My life seemed to fall apart in an instant. I intended to question Jacob, but he spoke first, saying, "Darling, you collapsed unexpectedly yesterday evening. The medical team conducted examinations and discovered malignant growths in your uterus, so I authorized its removal."
Concerned I might doubt him, he presented me with the medical documentation. Indeed, it indicated uterine cancer.
Had I not personally observed his directives to the physician, I might have accepted his deception.
Gazing at the unsightly mark on my abdomen, I felt as if my soul had been torn asunder, leaving only an abyss of anguish.
Jacob embraced me, his tone sympathetic as he attempted to console me. "Darling, I understand your lifelong desire for a child, but your wellbeing is my primary concern. I can't fathom losing you. If necessary, we can always consider adoption."
I started to speak, but the door's hinges creaked before I could utter a word.
Daisy entered, carrying a basket of fruit.
"Pardon the intrusion. I'm here on the company's behalf to check on Mrs. Lopez."
Daisy was a recently contracted streamer at Cosmic Entertainment. Attractive, with an ideal physique and engaging personality, her broadcasts generated substantial revenue for the company.
It was easy to see why Jacob might prefer her.
Jacob's demeanor remained unchanged. He acknowledged her with a nod, then redirected his focus to me.
However, I sensed that beneath his composed exterior, turmoil lurked.
I turned away from them, suppressing my feelings, and said, "I'm exhausted. I'd like to sleep."
I expected Daisy to depart, but surprisingly, she remained. She sat quietly nearby, accompanying Jacob.
Jacob stayed by my side, thoughtfully kneading my shoulders. Daisy, meanwhile, sat modestly, seemingly portraying the picture of familial harmony.
Yet unseen, beneath the bed, Daisy was discreetly caressing Jacob's leg with her own.
He didn't stop her, permitting her actions until she grew bolder. Only then did he reach out, firmly grasping her thigh to halt her flirtation.
But Daisy persisted. She moved behind him, embracing him from behind, nuzzling against him like an affectionate feline.
Jacob glanced at me, ensuring my eyes were shut and my breathing even, as if I were in deep slumber. Emboldened, he turned and pressed Daisy against the nearby table, gripping her neck as he kissed her.
He quickly withdrew, his icy gaze warning her to behave.
But Daisy was undaunted. She clung to him once more, wrapping herself around him.
This time, Jacob couldn't resist. After one final look in my direction, he took her hand and led her out of the room.
As the door closed behind them, I opened my eyes.
Jacob would never suspect that every detail of his interaction with Daisy had been reflected in the glass, allowing me to witness everything with perfect clarity.
I silently followed them to a secluded area.
Concealed behind a pillar, I observed Jacob gripping Daisy's neck, his jaw clenched as he growled, "Didn't I tell you to control yourself around Larissa?"
Daisy remained unintimidated. She leaned flirtatiously against his arm and pouted. "It's just that you've been so preoccupied with her lately. The baby and I miss you."
She traced her fingers along his chest, her voice sultry, "Mr. Lopez, haven't you always wanted to try something more thrilling? Let's do it. This floor has no surveillance, and your wife is sound asleep. No one will ever know."
Before Jacob could reply, she stood on her toes and pressed her lips to his.