The Officer's Runaway Wife & Secret Son novel Chapter 26

Margot's hand slipped naturally into his pocket.

The two walked side by side toward the exit. Passersby watched them, remarking on what a perfect couple they were.

Clara stood behind the pillar, listening to these compliments, feeling like a rat in a sewer, unfit for the light.

She looked down at the medication slip in her hand, then touched her still-spasming stomach.

They were drinking hot soup bought after waiting in line. She dad nothing.

It wasn't that Rhys didn't know how to love someone; he just didn't love her.

Clara stood behind the pillar for a long time. Only when their backs disappeared outside the revolving doors did she slowly walk out to pick up her medicine.

***

Back at Riverside Court, the floor heating was strong, but she still felt cold.

Clara took her medicine, hid the rest in a drawer, and sat on the sofa in a daze.

At 3:00 PM, the door lock beeped.

Rhys pushed the door open.

Seeing Clara sitting on the sofa, he was clearly stunned for a moment, then his gaze softened.

"I thought you left again."

Clara watched the TV and replied, "I thought you weren't going to the station until the afternoon? Where were you this morning?"

Rhys changed his shoes and sat down next to Clara.

"There was something at the station. It's the end of the year, so there are strict inspections in this area. I came back to grab some clothes, then I have to go."

The lie was told so naturally, without even a stutter.

If she hadn't stumbled upon that scene at the hospital, Clara would have genuinely believed him.

Liar.

Clara: "Oh."

Rhys pulled a small box out of his coat pocket and placed it in Clara's hand.

"I saw this on the way back and thought it suited you."

Clara opened it to take a look.

It was a new bracelet from a luxury brand.

When you hear lies too many times, you stop believing it.

She pushed him away without changing her expression.

"Alright, since you're so busy, you shouldn't waste time here. Hurry up and go to work."

Rhys frowned imperceptibly when she pushed him away, leaving his arms empty.

But he didn't think much of it, assuming she was still throwing a small tantrum.

He believed he understood Clara. As long as she was willing to accept a gift, it meant the issue was over. He had to give her a way out.

He stood up and grabbed a few clothes from the coat rack. "I'm leaving then. I might not come back tonight. Remember to eat."

"Okay."

Clara watched his back until the door closed.

She took the bracelet out, slipped it onto her wrist, and held her hand up to the sunlight to shake it.

It was indeed very beautiful.

Since it was bought with marital assets, it would be a waste not to take it. Selling this secondhand would still bring in a good sum of money.