Chapter 4

Archer felt incredibly awkward and quickly got up to head to the bathroom. He took off his underwear and tossed it in the trash can. "This pair's going in the garbage. I'm never wearing these again."

He closed the bathroom door, and the sound of running water could be heard, extinguishing his raging desire.

So Archer can feel shame too, I thought bitterly to myself.

He thought he'd hidden the evidence fast enough that I wouldn't notice those weren't my underwear. But the truth is, he never paid attention to the fact that all my underwear is made of light-colored cotton.

After his shower, Archer didn't return to the bedroom. He went to the study next door.

I tossed and turned in the bedroom while the light in the study stayed on until dawn.

We each had our own thoughts, neither of us sleeping a wink all night.

Archer was right. I lived in Shaw Mansion, and he provided for all my needs - food, clothing, everything. Even the servants attending to me were arranged by him.

No matter how much I struggled on my own, I couldn't escape his control.

Since a direct confrontation was hopeless, I decided to sneak away when he wasn't paying attention.

The next morning, Archer didn't leave early for work to handle his complex business affairs as usual.He meticulously shaved in front of the bathroom mirror, his bloodshot eyes occasionally darting towards my room.

Seeing me emerge, he promptly signaled the maid to help me with my makeup.

At this moment, complying with his wishes was the only way to lower his guard. To increase my chances of escape, I obediently sat at the vanity, allowing the maid to doll me up.

Archer, pleased with my compliance, patted my shoulder and reminded me, "I'm taking you to a high-society business gala in Manhattan today. Remember to keep your little schemes in check and behave yourself."

Every year, Manhattan's wealthy businessmen host a gathering to discuss business and network.

In public, we must play the part of a loving couple. This is crucial for the face and reputation of the Shaw Mansion.

If I fail to recognize this opportunity and embarrass Archer, I fear he might lock me away in that dark, sunless room indefinitely.

In the opulent banquet hall, men and women in expensive attire clinked glasses and engaged in animated conversations.

With a fake smile plastered on my face, teetering on high heels, and draped in an elegant black gown, I silently followed Archer, playing the role of a demure and virtuous trophy wife.

I used to feel sophisticated and regal when dressed up like this, but now I only feel constrained in both body and soul.The party quickly reached its crescendo as the host brought out a dazzling blue diamond necklace.

He announced, "This necklace is called the Ocean's Heart, inspired by the one worn by Rose in Titanic."

"All proceeds from the auction will go to charity, and tonight's winning bidder will be honored as Manhattan's Philanthropic Entrepreneur of the Year."

Archer had always been dedicated to charitable causes, believing it helped cultivate a positive corporate image. Unsurprisingly, he won the Blue Diamond with a bid of $100 million.

"Congratulations, Mr. Shaw, on acquiring the Blue Diamond. Why don't you place it on your sweetheart?" the host suggested with a smile.

"Your blue prosthetic eye matches this necklace perfectly. That's why I decided to buy it for you," Archer said.

Archer gently brushed aside my hair, intending to fasten the necklace around my neck in front of everyone.

Suddenly, Scarlett appeared between Archer and me, playfully tugging at his arm.

"Rose has always been my idol. I've always dreamed of having a necklace just like hers," she cooed.

"Archer, it's my birthday today, and you haven't given me my present yet!"