m of the Westbrook mansion. Plush and pristine as the space was, it alrea

ht came crashing in complete force. His brutal dismissal of any romantic notions between us as husband

posed to go on living day by day trapped on this loveless marria

real partnership and connection over time. But Jack made it crystal clean that compassion and tenderness were nowhere

t me a w

be known as. Every corridor I wandered through was covered with priceless works of artwork, archways of polished marble, and suffocating presenta

area dominated by a table that could easily seat 30 people. Dark, heavy funitures a

each glimpse of cold luxury surrounding me. Is this what my new life consists of now -

grounds outdoor. Acres of finely manicured gardens and landscapes spread out in every directi

or one day, entertaining within the lush gardens or presiding over lavish occasions within the ballroom. But

devoid of the warmth and homely comforts I once knew? No traces o

dampening any sense of awe at the full-size luxury. I was a co

I could get some fresh air and temporary escape amid the gardens outside. Anything to keep away from returning to the ho

marble fountains. The sweet floral scents and sounds of bubbling water had been an on the spot balm to my spirits. Drawing

d into his pockets as usual, conferring in hushed tones with two sharply-dressed men wearing dark sunglas

onversation. But at that moment, Jack's eager eyes flicked over and clocked me. There was a he

ection. His expression betrayed slightly-checked irritation at my

east do so faraway from my private meetings i

rning' to his new wife, no pretense of wamth or making

of the outdoors within the home I now share with my hus

s stormy eyes instantly hardened to stee

you see right here - the house, grounds, assets - those all belong completely to me and my fami

my place. A shameful hot prickling began in the back of my eyes, which I hastily

soever in your world" I fired back, allowing the bitterness and harm I felt to seep into my vo

e Look, his expression inscrutable

Without any other word or backwards glance, he unexpectedly turned on his heel

ot tears spilled over and rolled down my cheeks. Sinking down onto

ss or welcome from my husband. A glorified prisoner in this gilded ca

le simplicity and warmth I had once knew , Before this cruel marriag