"Don't worry, we'll keep an eye on Iñigo for you!"

"This idiot only has eyes for you, no need to worry, sister-in-law!"

They were his childhood friends—now shareholders in his company—currently on a business trip to expand the firm's reach.

He turned back to me, smiling softly. "Wife, do you miss me?"

Leaning closer to the screen, he lowered his voice. "I miss you so much. I keep rushing these guys so I can finish up and get back to you!"

Hearing him call me 'wife' again and again still made my face warm. My heart softened despite everything.

"I know. Work comes first," I said, forcing a smile.

Maybe I was being paranoid. Maybe I shouldn't doubt him—or the love we'd built, or the marriage we were about to enter.

Still, I couldn't stop myself from asking, "Iñigo... what do you think of Talia?"

I tried to sound casual, almost teasing. "She seems to be seeing someone lately!"

His expression froze for a fraction of a second before he shrugged it off.

"Who cares about that tomboy?" His tone was laced with disdain. "I have zero interest in her life. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't even want to hear her name!"

Then he smiled again. "Wife, I've got to run. Let's talk later, okay?"

"I'll bring you a gift when I get back!"

That was the last thing Iñigo said before hanging up the video call.

I sat alone on the balcony, staring blankly at the city lights. The night breeze was cool, but my thoughts were heavy—like a thick fog that refused to clear.

Before I could sort through them, someone tapped my shoulder.

"Elaine!"

It was Talia.

She was already dressed—but not like the tomboy I'd known my whole life.

Tonight, she wore a tight, body-hugging skirt and heavy makeup. For a moment, I barely recognized her.

"Talia," I said carefully, "are you... seeing someone?"

I wanted to warn her. The man she was texting didn't seem trustworthy, and I didn't want her to get hurt. But before I could finish, her expression darkened.

"Elaine," she said sharply, "we're best friends, sure. But just because you're happy doesn't mean you can control who I love!"

Her sudden anger stunned me.

"Elaine," she snapped, calling my name coldly. "You just can't stand seeing me happy, can you?"

My breath caught.

"I shouldn't have taken leave from work to help you with your wedding," she continued bitterly. "You've really disappointed me!"

She grabbed her purse and stormed toward the door.