Chapter 3: Silence
349words
"Still not ready?" Michael called from the bedroom, irritation evident in his voice.
"Almost done." She forced her lips into a smile, though no one was there to see it.
On that rainy night three years ago, she'd overheard every word between Michael and Mia, witnessed their passionate embrace. Her world had shattered that day. Yet she hadn't confronted them, hadn't broken down in tears or caused a scene. She'd simply walked away, pretending to know nothing.
Her father was seriously ill, and the partnership between Davis and Williams companies was his only lifeline.
"Williams Company needs Michael, your father needs the Davis Company's support." Her mother's words echoed in her mind. "Maybe Michael was just... blowing off steam. You can win him back."
Rachel emerged from the bathroom to find Michael adjusting his tie.
"Tonight's charity gala is crucial," he said without looking up. "The board members will all be there. You know your role."
His phone buzzed. After reading the text message, Michael's lips curved into a smile. "Ms. Brown has arrived downstairs."
"She's attending the banquet too?" Rachel asked, feigning surprise.
"Of course, she's my assistant," Michael replied matter-of-factly. "Problem?"
She shook her head and fastened her pearl earrings—a birthday gift from her father. For his sake and for the thousands of employees at Williams Corporation, she had to maintain this charade of a marriage.
"No problem," Rachel forced a smile. "Let's go."
In the car, Mia sat in the front passenger seat, exchanging glances with Michael through the rearview mirror. Rachel recognized that look all too well—lust mingled with conspiracy.
"How's your father's health these days?" Mia asked with transparent insincerity.
"Still fighting," Rachel replied coolly, catching the flash of annoyance in Mia's eyes.
Michael cut in: "Next week we're heading to the Maldives for our fifth anniversary celebration."
Rachel looked at him in genuine surprise. "Really?" In five years, he had never once remembered their anniversary.
"Of course," he smiled, though his eyes never met hers.
