Chapter 2

This was the first time in five years I'd seen light, and it stabbed viciously into my eyes.

My chest tightened, as if crushed under a heavy boot. I couldn't breathe.

My fingers trembled where they clutched the towel.

II blinked hard, only for another photo from Melissa to fill my vision, captioned:

"Who looks better in this sheer bikini-her or me?"

The photo showed me, terrified, arms wrapped around myself.

So that's how pathetic I looked.

Seeing another message from Melissa, Garrett immediately stopped drying my hair.

Right in front of me, he replied to her.

I even saw a slight smile curve at the corner of his mouth.

"Alright, that was a bit much this time. Don't do it again."

"But wait, didn't I give you that sheer bikini?"

Melissa quickly responded.

"Because I wanted you to compare and see who has the better figure..."

The rest became blurry.

I reached up and felt tears overflowing from my eyes without my realizing it.

I walked stiffly toward the bathroom.

Only then did Garrett react, putting down his phone.

He grabbed my wrist and affectionately picked up the towel that had fallen to the floor.

"Wait, don't forget the towel."

As he moved to drape it over my shoulders again, I stopped him for the first time, speaking softly.

"It's dirty. I don't want it."

His expression shifted. He tossed the towel on the floor and pulled me into his arms with slightly forced tenderness.

"Claire, don't be angry."

"That's just how Melissa is-headstrong. I already scolded her on the phone. She'll come apologize tomorrow."

"She's young and immature. You're older than her, so don't take this childish stuff to heart."

His warm breath hit my ear, tempting and familiar.

If I hadn't regained my sight, I might have believed him again. I might have believed Melissa was just being playful...

I gently pulled away from his embrace and shook my head.

"Since you say it's just childish stuff, she doesn't need to apologize."

I saw satisfaction flash in his cool eyes.

He walked over, speaking with relief.

"Claire, I knew it. You're the kindest woman."

He leaned in as usual, ready to give me one of his perfunctory kisses.