His face changed instantly and he snatched up his phone. Angrily, he typed something on the screen, prompting a call from Louise, her voice quivering with sobs, "Mr. Angelo, I was wrong! Please don't block me …"
Troy, visibly furious, scolded her harshly, "I told you before, if you say anything inappropriate again and upset my wife, I'll fire you!" Hanging up, he turned to reassure me.
He claimed Louise was drunk and speaking nonsense. I knew all too well, it was just a performance for my sake.
I chuckled lightly, "Troy, there's no need for this. We …" before I could finish saying 'should divorce,' another message came from Louise.
A video this time: In the rain, she was soaking wet, her body alluring, while several men with ill intentions loomed behind her.
Through tears, she pleaded, "Mr. Angelo, come save me! They've been following me …"
Troy's expression changed drastically, "Felicia, I need to step out for a bit!"
I smiled, "It's fine, saving a life comes first. Go to her."
Grateful, he cast me a quick glance and rushed out without even grabbing a coat. Meanwhile, I simply lowered my head and continued painting.
I had grown accustomed to these occurrences, which had happened far too often.
When he returned, it was already past midnight. By then, I had framed my finished painting and was fast asleep.
Half-asleep, I felt him gently embrace me, "Felicia, I know you're upset today, aren't you? Don't worry. I've decided to fire Louise. Once I've handed over my responsibilities at the company, I'll devote myself fully to staying home with you during your pregnancy. How does that sound?"
If my eyes hadn't been closed, I might not have been able to suppress a laugh. Had Troy acted so long that he began believing his own lies?
Or did he know I was only pretending to sleep and these words were intentionally for me to hear? Perhaps he hoped I would, as always, swallow my grievances and reconcile. But I had seen through it all now.
The next morning, I didn't wake until ten. Turning over, I saw Troy standing in the doorway wearing an apron. He said cheerfully, "Awake, sleepyhead? Come have breakfast."
I was taken aback. Troy didn't go to work?
Looking at the table overflowing with a lavish breakfast spread, I wondered if I was dreaming.