As I spoke, I slapped Jim’s chest over and over again. If there had been any trace of suspicion in his eyes a moment ago, it completely vanished now—simply because I was fully playing the role of a heartbroken woman. And I must say, I was incredibly convincing!

Tears streamed down my face with perfect emotional timing. I didn’t know what was going through his mind, but I could see the guilt deepening in his eyes. He held my wrists, and those large hands—still wearing his wedding ring—gently wiped away my tears. His voice became even softer.

“Linda, I swear… it won’t happen again.”

“You’re not going to ask me...