Chapter 1

Rowan Bradford, my spouse, taught chemistry at Ashford University. His loving nature and attentiveness had always been constants in our marriage. Even after years together, people often remarked that I still had the appearance of a carefree college student.

Each anniversary, Rowan would surprise me with a thoughtful present. Our friends frequently commented on how we seemed like the ideal pair, from our days in school uniforms to our wedding attire. I had always believed this to be true.

However, just moments ago, as I helped him remove his coat, a small container tumbled out. I retrieved it, observing it was only partially full. The label bore elegant script reading [Intimate Time]. It was a bottle of personal lubricant.

My hands shook slightly as I held it, my fingertips growing warm with discomfort. Without hesitation, I inquired, "What's this?"

Rowan hesitated briefly before regaining his usual composure. "Ah, a company specializing in these products recently approached the lab about a potential partnership. They sent this as a sample."

I remained silent, my gaze fixed on the bottle.

He moved closer, gently embracing me from behind. "What's the matter, darling? Are you questioning my fidelity?"

"It was such a challenge to win your heart. I would never dream of hurting you."

I forced a chuckle, slipped from his arms, and returned the bottle. "Oh, you and your clever responses. Hurry, put this silly thing away."

As I moved, I caught a faint scent emanating from him.

I paused, furrowing my brow. "Rowan, why do you smell of women's perfume?"

I had a pollen allergy and never cared for floral scents.

"There was a woman at today's event wearing overpowering perfume. The smell lingered in the car, and honestly, I found it excessive too."

"Then go shower quickly," I suggested.

Rowan planted a soft kiss on my forehead before heading to the bathroom.

I watched him walk away, then slowly extended my hand.

On my fingertips, I discovered a long, chestnut-colored hair that had been on his shoulder.

But... my hair had always been straight and black.

Suddenly, I recalled a woman I had noticed at his laboratory recently.

Rowan and I had been university classmates, and he was also my father's student. Initially quiet and scholarly, he transformed into an affectionate and doting partner after we began dating. Friends often joked about my ability to turn a composed academic into a lovesick admirer.

Once, I casually mentioned liking a Coach bag, and he lived on a diet of buns and pickles for a month to save enough to buy it for me as a gift.

After graduating, he worked tirelessly for three years to save for an expensive diamond ring.

I remember asking him, "Do you know the significance of exchanging rings during a proposal?"

"It symbolizes a promise. It means both spouses must remain faithful, correct?"

"Are you subtly warning me, Olivia Winters?" he asked with a grin.

"Indeed. Rowan Bradford, I have one strict rule. If I ever discover you've been unfaithful, I'll vanish from your life without a word," I stated seriously.

He held me close, his eyes sincere.

"I swear, I'll never betray you. If I ever do, I'll forfeit my life as penance."

Post-graduation, he pursued academia while I started my own business.

Recently, I visited his department to discuss a potential collaboration, with the project details nearly finalized.

He proudly showed me around his laboratory.

When his students realized we were married, they enthusiastically praised us.

"Wow, your wife is gorgeous! Mr. Bradford, you're so fortunate!"

"Professor Bradford and his wife are relationship goals. This is the kind of partnership I aspire to!"

Amidst all this, only one female student quietly followed me on Instagram.