Chapter 1Terms of Acquisition

Right before dinner, my husband suddenly asked, "What if we stop loving each other? Whether it's because of someone else, or... we just grow apart. What happens to us?"

I hesitated for a long time.

"Maybe divorce is the best answer. You could find someone else."

The truth was, I already knew. I knew about his unusual feelings for that girl.

And I'd already heard him promise her: "Don't cry. We'll have a future."

* * *

He put his fork down, his face suddenly hardening.

After a long moment, he forced a laugh.

"Victoria, I was just kidding."

It wasn't a joke.

I knew.

I had known his love, so I knew what it looked like when it was gone. And I knew that what he felt for that other girl... was real.

Earlier today, at the hospital.

The doctor, who had been impatient, softened the moment he read my chart.

He lowered his voice. "Don't be scared. This isn't late-stage. With aggressive treatment, this is manageable."

I was walking out with the diagnosis when I saw them.

Julian's arm was bandaged.

The girl was looking at him, her eyes red with pain.

"Why did I have to meet you so late? I can't even take care of you properly."

Julian looked flustered.

Blood was seeping through his new bandage.

He said, "Don't cry. I'll give you a future."

The words hung in the air. He froze, as if he regretted saying them.

But she believed him.

Her nose was red as she looked up at him. "Really?"

Julian just frowned.

He didn't speak.

I didn't stay to watch the rest.

I know Julian. I know his boundaries. As long as he was married to me, his body wouldn't cross the line.

But his heart...

I couldn't control his heart.