ManyWriters

In London, everyone's aware of Patrick McGrath's deep devotion to his spouse, treating her as his everything.
Behind closed doors, however, he keeps an 18-year-old around, claiming she's a mirror of his wife from years past. He maintains it's just his way of holding onto true love's essence.
He's even decreed that no one should mention anything that might distress his wife.
One day, elated about her pregnancy, she hurried to his workplace to share the news. To her shock, there was the young girl, bearing an uncanny likeness to her, perched on Patrick's lap, offering him wine directly from her mouth.
The girl turned to Patrick and inquired, "Am I merely her stand-in?"
Patrick pulled her close and responded, "You're incomparable to her."
That very day, his wife scheduled an abortion and reached out to her aunt living overseas.
"Aunt, I've reached a decision. I'm moving to New Zealand."

A Wife's Twisted Awakening

The auction's most prized possessions are always showcased at the end. Unsurprisingly, the brooch I desired was listed earlier due to its lesser-known designer.


I acquired it at a fair price, and as I rose to depart, Christy's sugary voice rang out from the front, filled with playfulness, "Auntie, why leave after bidding on such a minor item? The finest pieces are reserved for the end! You shouldn't miss the final collection—it's truly exceptional!"


Her melodious tone caught everyone's attention, drawing eyes to me. Christy's victorious grin shone as if she'd emerged triumphant from a contest.


I returned her smile serenely. At eighteen, one ought to be daring, vivacious, and fearless. No wonder Patrick is enchanted.


Even I couldn't help but appreciate such a lively, youthful woman.


Patrick fondly tousled her hair, signaling her to hush.


Then, intrigued, he turned to see who had captured his sweetheart's interest.


When his gaze fell on me, his demeanor changed—rapidly shifting through astonishment, remorse, and irritation.


It was the first occasion I'd witnessed someone display such an odd combination of emotions simultaneously.


The venue was filled with familiar faces, all part of Patrick's social circle—old friends who had once greeted me warmly at numerous events.


Christy's clear voice made it impossible for Patrick to disregard me.


Under everyone's scrutiny, he had no option but to motion for someone to guide me to the seat beside him.


Patrick subtly nodded at Christy, indicating she should take the vacant seat in the rear. She stood up furiously, her eyes glistening with tears.


"Go to the back! Christy, I won't repeat myself!"


Christy bit her lip hard, struggling to contain her tears.


I gently placed my hand on Patrick's arm.


"Let it go. Don't make her feel slighted. I've already purchased something I like, so there's no need to stay longer."


Patrick scowled, his tone sharp with displeasure.


"You are my wife. She's merely an assistant. What right does she have to feel wronged?"


The word "assistant" clearly wounded Christy's pride. Tears welled up as she stomped to the back row, sitting down angrily.


Patrick gripped my hand firmly, refusing to let me leave. He insisted I remain.


I could sense Christy's glare on my back, but I chose not to look.


It wasn't until the finale that Patrick successfully bid on the premium yellow diamond necklace, as he had intended.


Christy smiled triumphantly, turning to him expectantly.


But Patrick didn't even glance her way. Instead, he draped the necklace around my neck.


I began to object, but he gently held my hand.


"Lora, you deserve nothing but the best."


Christy spun around and stormed off angrily, while Patrick watched her from the corner of his eye.


His slightly furrowed brows and clenched fists betrayed his inner conflict.


I smiled as I removed the necklace and returned it to Patrick.


"Such a precious item should be kept in a secure vault."


Patrick was momentarily taken aback, his brows relaxing slightly.


He clutched the necklace tightly, but before he could speak, I continued.


"But I still appreciate your gift. In fact, I've prepared a surprise for you—it's on the nightstand in the bedroom."


He embraced me tightly, gently caressing my back.


"Lora is the best. I can't wait to see what the surprise is!"


As he held me close, his right foot subtly moved towards the exit.


The eager look in his eyes was unmistakable, and I could see how anxious he was to console Christy.


"If there's an urgent matter at the office, go take care of it!"


Patrick looked at me gratefully before swiftly departing with the jewelry box.


I then entered the pre-booked ride-share vehicle, heading rapidly towards the airport.


Patrick's black Maybach zoomed past my car window, and I watched it vanish in the distance.


Chapter 4