Chapter 46: This Is My Husband Janet pressed her cheek against her palm, her eyes glued to the paycheck that lay before her like a bittersweet reminder of her struggles. Despite the fresh infusion of money, it felt woefully insufficient to cover Hannah’s surgery expenses, a thought that gnawed at her relentlessly. "Why the long face on payday?" her colleague remarked, brow furrowed in concern as she noticed Janet's demeanor. Janet offered a small, forced smile, but it did little to mask the worry painted across her features. "Fancy a barbecue tonight?" her colleague continued, a hint of cheer in her tone. "Thanks, but maybe next time? I have other plans," Janet replied, shaking her head apologetically. "Alright then. Take care." Her colleague waved goodbye, a warm smile lingering on her lips as she left. As the office emptied, Janet slowly gathered her belongings, each item a reminder of the weight she carried. Just as she was about to step out, a gentle pat on her back jolted her from her thoughts. Turning around, she was greeted by Christopher, clad in a stylish brown windbreaker, radiating an energy that was both uplifting and refreshing. His smile was infectious, eyes sparkling with a playful gleam. "Ready to head out? Let me walk you to the bus stop. You look a bit down. Trouble at work?" he inquired, genuine concern lacing his voice. Janet tightened her grip on the straps of her backpack, forcing a smile. "No trouble at all! Just lost in thought, I guess. Actually, I was wondering if you’re free tonight? I just got my paycheck and wanted to treat you to dinner." With her financial worries looming large, she hoped that splurging on dinner wouldn’t be the end of the world. Besides, she felt an obligation to repay Christopher's kindness; it was the least she could do. "Absolutely! I just discovered a new Western restaurant I’ve been dying to try." His enthusiasm was palpable, his surprise evident in the way his eyes lit up. Pressing the elevator button, Christopher turned to study her face, curiosity evident in his gaze. "So, that guy who picked you up the other day — is he your boyfriend?" The question hung in the air, a troublesome echo of an unease that had taken root in his mind ever since he’d seen Janet with Ethan. While he hesitated to pry, he found himself itching to learn more about the stranger who seemed so out of place in her world. "You met him?" Janet hesitated, contemplating how much to reveal. "That man is…" But she was interrupted by her phone ringing, cutting off her thoughts. "Sorry, I need to take this." She stepped out of the elevator, seeking refuge in the bathroom. "Hey, what's up?" she murmured, keeping her voice low and steady, although her heart raced. "When are you coming back? I’m starving," came Ethan's voice, laced with annoyance. She could easily picture him sprawled on the couch, his brow furrowed as hunger gnawed at him. "There are sandwiches in the fridge. Just grab one." As the silence stretched on, Janet felt a wave of guilt wash over her. She knew that as his wife, it was essential to keep him in the loop, especially since she had plans with another man. "I’m going out for dinner with Christopher. Just wanted to let you know; I might be a little late." The line remained silent, tension stretching between them. "You’re not even sure he helped you. Why do you feel the need to repay him?" Ethan's tone was icy, laced with unspoken jealousy. Swallowing the lump in her throat, Janet defended herself, "But I already invited him! It wouldn’t be fair to cancel last minute." There was a rustling sound on the other end. "I’ll come with you. Which restaurant?" His voice was calm but firm. After sharing the name of the restaurant, Janet returned to Christopher, determination etching her features. "Let’s go." They made their way down two bustling streets until they arrived at a lavish Western restaurant, its exterior emanating an ambiance of elegance and refinement. "Looks like dinner just got a little more crowded," Janet murmured to Christopher, her heart fluttering with nerves as they reached the entrance. "It’s alright. No big deal," Christopher replied, though his relaxed demeanor masked the tension he sensed brewing. "Is it a male or a female friend?" he casually inquired, but Janet barely had time to respond as she spotted Ethan standing at the restaurant entrance. The setting sun bathed him in a warm, golden light, accentuating the chiseled contours of his form, amplifying his imposing presence. "Wow, he’s here already," Janet muttered under her breath as Christopher followed her gaze, his expression shifting into one of wide-eyed surprise. Dressed in a classic black jacket, Ethan stood with the poise of a man who commanded respect; however, an air of arrogance subtly lingered about him, leaving Christopher feeling vulnerable in his shadow. "This is my husband, Ethan," Janet introduced, her footsteps quickening as she made her way to Ethan, her heart racing with anxiety. "And this is Christopher… the one I mentioned on the phone." Christopher's eyes widened, mouth agape as he took in the scene before him. "What? When did you get married?" The disbelief was palpable, and his gaze flitted back and forth between Janet and Ethan. Yet their collision of worlds was striking, both men trying to assess one another, silently competing for dominance. Janet could feel the tension crackling in the air, a perceptible chill creeping in as sweaty beads trickled down her back. Gritting her teeth, she forced a smile, trying to veil her growing apprehension. Ethan’s sharp gaze bore into Christopher with a smoldering intensity. "I assume you’ve been keeping your marital status under wraps, Janet?" he said coolly, his voice low and simmering with barely-contained annoyance. The silent rivalry between the two men was almost palpable, and Janet couldn't help but feel the weight of her choices crashing down upon her.