Chapter 37

In the past, I did consider marrying Charles, only because I thought Carl's heart was beating in his chest. Being his wife was my way to claim it forever. But all I wanted now was to remain Carl's wife. In this lifetime, I would belong to him and him alone. "My goodness! That's Charles Bowman! How dare she say that to him!" "One becomes fearless when she's doted on." "Look at him. He's not even angry." Sure enough, Charles didn't show anger. He lowered himself further, picking up the ring in silence. Then, he grabbed my hand and forced the ring onto my finger. "Stop messing around, Shay. We already got the marriage certificate." What? How could I not know? With everyone around us offering congratulations, he led me outside. I was about to lash out, but he explained softly, "We didn't really get a marriage certificate. It's just a lie to everyone else. Shay, you've stayed with me all this time. Let me at least pretend you're really mine." If he had used threats, maybe I would