He's Blind, I'm His Fake Fiancée for a Year

Chapter 2

Downstairs, Lucas's mom, Vivian, was already sitting at the dining table, waiting for me.

"Right on time," she said with a smile. "I've got some good news.

Emma's been found, and Dr. Lee says Lucas's eyes are starting to show signs of recovery. You'll be stepping down soon."

Vivian's smile was genuine, and it stung more than I expected.

I forced a smile, trying to hide my feelings. "Congrats. Looks like it's finally over."

Vivian's eyes flicked to the faint kiss marks on my neck, and her expression hardened.

"Aria, don't get any ideas," she warned, her voice cold. "If you slip up or try anything in these last days, you won't get a penny for your brother's treatment."

"I understand, Mrs. Smith," I said, my voice icy, ignoring the disdain in her tone.

Behind closed doors, Vivian wouldn't let me call her "Mom."

She always saw me as a poor substitute, lucky that her son had even given me a second glance.

To her, someone like Emma, someone from a 'proper' family, was the only one worthy of Lucas.

If it hadn't been for her wanting to save face during the engagement, she never would've allowed someone like me into the Smith family.

On engagement day, she made me cover my face with a veil, as if I was just going through the motions.

Later, after dinner, I brought a glass of milk up to Lucas.

When I entered the bedroom, he was finishing up a call with his assistant, going over some company stuff.

I sat on the edge of the bed, my heart racing as I mentally rehearsed what I needed to say.

Lucas hung up and reached for my hand, his smile warm.

"Let's go out tomorrow, it's the weekend."

"But... I need to visit my family tomorrow."

He linked his fingers with mine and smiled that soft, patient smile of his. "Then I'll wait for you."

I looked at him, the weight of the situation sinking in. Tomorrow, the agreement would be over, and tonight would be the last night we spent together.

"Lucas, drink your milk and get some rest," I said, trying to sound normal.

I handed him the glass.

He finished it off, the milk leaving a small spot at the corner of his mouth. Without thinking, I reached up to wipe it away.

As my fingers brushed across his lips, a jolt of electricity shot through me.

Lucas leaned in, kissing me softly, but with an intensity that took me by surprise.

"My wife's extra passionate tonight," he murmured, his voice low and teasing.

"Lucas..." I whispered, my pulse quickening.

Take care of yourself. It’s time for me to leave.

...

Early the next morning, I walked downstairs to find my luggage already packed. The servants stood off to the side, avoiding my gaze, while Vivian watched me with thinly veiled contempt.

"Here's your money. The password is your birthday."

Her voice was clipped, dismissive, like she couldn't wait to be rid of me.

I took the envelope without hesitation and turned toward the door.

Just as I reached for the handle, footsteps echoed down the stairs.

"Honey, when will you be back?"