Chapter 21

Lawrence didn't look surprised. He sighed softly and pulled Miranda into his arms. "You're just too kind… You can lean on me whenever you need. I'm your husband after all." Hearing his gentle reassurance, Miranda's eyes welled up with tears. Choking back her tears, Miranda protested, "But it's just pretend…" "Legally, it's real," Lawrence said seriously. "Emotionally, it's real, too. Marriage means we share everything. Your problems are mine, too. "Miranda, I gave in once three years ago, and I've regretted it ever since," he said, his expression more serious than ever. "This time, I will not back down." Finally, Miranda couldn't hold back anymore and let her tears fall. The feeling of being chosen and supported so firmly was overwhelmingly comforting. Upon seeing her cry, Lawrence panicked and quickly forced a smile. "Why are you crying? This isn't hard… Don't worry, I've got a secret weapon." "What secret weapon could you possibly have…" Miranda sniffled, teasing him. "You've a