three

Mark glared at you across the table. He asked you to order, not to chitchat with the waiter. Weird. It’s either a scowl on your face that scared people away or a severe silence with your zipped lips. No in between. It’s acknowledgeable to everyone around you that you’d never been a friendly and sociable human being.

“Thank you.” You said before the waiter steps backward and turns away.

“What did you say to him?” Mark tossed you a suspicious look. He’s not big fan of gossips but he actually wanted to know what you were talking about. To a stranger. You and him never, ever communicated for longer than sixty seconds. And you talked to that guy for literal five minutes straight, smiling, laughing and touching— you patted on his back once.

You glowered at him, again. When it came to interaction with Mark, you barely put on a facial expression that radiated positive energy. “Why do you ask?”

“Whatever.” He gave up. This conversation had no potential for a good ending. Opposite of his speculation that you’re going to bite back, you peacefully leaned on your chair. You hands tucked in your overcoat, your eyes infuriatingly squinted at him. “What?” He barked.

“Why are we here?”

An amusing smirk displayed on his lips at your question. A question that both of you knew the answer. “You know what day it is today.”

Of course you did. How could you forget the fateful day that changed your life. Forever. One year anniversary of your wedding.

“It’s not like we have anything cheery to celebrate.” Your lips curled but the smile didn’t seem to touch your heart.

Abruptly, the dished respectively served on your table, interrupting the awkwardness between you and him. You flashed the waiter a thankful smile and a slight nod. And Mark had to admit, that smile looked way more genuine that the one you slung at him a split second ago.

He pressed his elbows on the table, his back merely bent forward. “Still, you’re my wife and I’m your husband. I suppose I should find some way to enjoy this special day.”

Such as **** you raw in his car.

Your eyes glinted with levity, licking his body up and down. There’s a fact that either of you wordlessly agreed to keep it in silence. Besides the hatred, the lust was mutual. But you’re not going to be one who crack first. You would never crack.

The rest of the dinner went on in serenity, no argument. You’re actually grateful that Mark let you finish your food and enjoy the dessert thoroughly without disturbing your meditating mind by his stupid mouth. You couldn’t stand his presence but you could suffer it as long as he knew how to act properly. Most of the time, he did not.

The leaves crunched beneath your boots as you walked your way to the parking lot. Your hands tucked deep inside your pockets due to the sharp chill of October weather. You adored fall and everything came with it—the cozy clothes, the riot of earthy colors on the trees, the hint of cinnamon and smoke in the air.

From a distance, you could already see his sleek black Audi A8. Typical Mark. He’s into somewhat elegant and modest. Unlike you. Your Bugatti Chiron would look showy and ostentatious next to his car.

Feigning boredom, you casted your eyes on your wristwatch. Still, no matter what time it was, it’s showtime. The moment to unbox the gift you secretly prepared for him. You’d been keeping your mouth shut long enough and you’re about to detonate from the thrill. You wanted to see Mark’s reaction.

“My best friend is visiting us.”

Your heart skipped a beat and the crunching noise beside you briefly vanished. “I beg you pardon?” Mark twisted his head and glanced at you. Even under the dim light of the night, you could see the obvious astonishment plastered on his face.

You knew everything. You’re just too marvelous at pretending to be clueless. How the hell could Mark think that you had no idea what was between him and Jolene when he’s literally in a marriage with you. However, you knew it two months later than you should’ve. When Jolene saw the photo of you and him at your wedding, she told you about her past relationship with Mark. Through messages.

He should’ve known the only, only thing prevented you from choking on his **** was morality. There’s no way on earth you would **** your best friend’s ex even if he’s your legal husband. As a matter of fact, he’s clearly still not over her.

Nonetheless, you’re going to play this game a little longer. If Mark wanted to play you, you would play him back.

“Jolene is visiting us. Tomorrow.”

Your tone was nonchalant, so was your face. Mark couldn’t inspect nothing in you, it truly looked like you’re simply informing him. His jaw ticked as he swiftly brushed off his shock, one blink and his dark eyes glistened with the mischief again. You’re amazed by how fast he managed to mask his true emotion.

“I’m excited to meet her.” He mused and quickened his steps again.

Of course he was.

Jolene was working in Canada after her college graduation. The poor girl could not make it to your wedding but it’s alright, that ceremony was meaningless. As she’s on a business trip, she decided to drop in for a brisk dinner. You knew her intention was purely checking on you yet you couldn’t help the weird feeling inside your chest about the encounter. Anticipation, worry or the worst— jealousy.

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***