Once, my paranoid love

The thought of Derek and his new bride attending the party brought a smile to my face. It was an opportunity to express my gratitude for his heroic actions and to finally offer the thanks he deserved.

As I contemplated the possibility of a reunion with Derek and his wife at the party, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the unexpected twists and turns that life had brought.

“Are you serious, Elena?” But Lucy asked suddenly, her laughter bubbling up uncontrollably.

I couldn’t fathom why Lucy found my statement amusing. “What?” I inquired, utterly puzzled by her reaction.

Lucy continued to laugh heartily, her amusement apparent. “Hahaha! I can’t believe what I’m hearing, Elena,” she managed to say between fits of laughter.

Perplexed, I pressed for an explanation. “What happened, though? What makes you laugh?” I asked, my curiosity growing.

Lucy finally composed herself enough to address my question. “Did you ask your husband what his name is?” she queried, her tone tinged with a hint of incredulity.

I shook my head, admitting, “No, I did not have the chance to ask him. Also, we didn’t talk much.”

Lucy’s laughter had left me both baffled and curious. I couldn’t comprehend why my response had elicited such a reaction.

Yes, it was right, though I knew my husband by his Huston name.

Lucy’s curiosity seemed to intensify as she leaned forward, and her gaze narrowed. “What? What did you guys do last night?” She inquired, her tone tinged with intrigue.

Lucy let out a hearty laugh, seemingly connecting the dots. “Oh, I see why he rushed yesterday. He didn’t let you breathe last night, did he?” She teased, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

I quickly clarified, “No, that’s not the case. Mr. Huston is a nice person, and we don’t have a husband-wife relationship.”

Lucy’s reaction was unexpected. Her expression changed abruptly as she exclaimed, “What?” Her eyes widened with surprise and confusion. “Is Derek a nice guy? And what do you mean by you guys don’t have a marital relationship?” Lucy wondered aloud.

“What are you talking about, Derek?” I said, my eyes narrowing in disbelief. The sudden revelation that Mr. Huston’s true name was Derek caught me completely off guard.

Lucy, however, was undeterred by my confusion. “Derek Houston is your husband’s name, honey,” she clarified with a playful tone. “Okay, just keep Derek’s name in mind,” she added, breaking into laughter.

The truth struck me like a bolt of lightning. Derek? My husband’s real name was Derek, not Mr. Huston. The realization sent my heart racing as I grappled with the implications of this newfound knowledge. It explained why Derek had always seemed so familiar, like someone I had known before.

Embarrassment washed over me as I considered my earlier blunder. I had been living in the same house with Derek, my own husband, and yet I had failed to recognize him. The unexpected revelation left me feeling both nervous and humbled, a mixture of emotions that I had not anticipated.

Lucy sighed, her eyes filled with understanding, as she spoke reassuringly, “Baby girl, don’t overthink things too much, especially not in front of me.”

I appreciated Lucy’s comforting words, but the embarrassment of my earlier blunder continued to weigh on my mind. “It’s so embarrassing now, Lucy. I really don’t know how I’m going to deal with him,” I admitted, my voice tinged with a sense of vulnerability.

Lucy, always one to provide guidance and insight, began to explain the situation. “He’s throwing a big bash tonight. It’s just to let everyone know you’re his wife,” she clarified, her words shedding light on Mr. Derek’s intentions. “Keep this expression on for tonight. Today will be a long night for you.”

The news of the impending party left me with mixed emotions. I couldn’t help but wonder about Mr. Derek’s motives. Our marriage had initially seemed like a business arrangement, a deal to benefit both parties. But now, his sudden change in behavior has me questioning the nature of our relationship.

As I contemplated the party, my thoughts turned to Paul. I realized that if Mr. Derek was indeed throwing a party to introduce me as his wife, there was a chance that Paul might find out about our marriage, and I couldn’t predict how he would react.

Nervousness welled up within me as I pressed my lips together. The unexpected turn of events had left me feeling apprehensive, unsure of what the night would bring.

“Elena,” Lucy said, drawing my attention as I turned to look at her.

“Go change your clothes,” she instructed, her tone conveying a sense of urgency.

I glanced at the package that held the dress meant for the evening’s party. “Why is he doing this, Lucy?” I asked, my voice tinged with frustration. “I believe you are aware that our marriage is nothing more than a contract. In my opinion, Mr. Derek doesn’t need to arrange a party.” I expressed my displeasure.

Lucy regarded me with a knowing look, understanding the complexities of the situation. “I understand your concern, Elena,” she began, choosing her words carefully. “But sometimes appearances matter. Mr. Derek may have his reasons for wanting to present you as his wife, even if our marriage is contractual in nature.” “It’s not what you’re thinking, Elena,” Lucy reassured me, her voice filled with understanding. “I know Derek made a mistake; he can be a bit arrogant about his business. But he isn’t a bad person. He won’t hurt you, believe me,” she continued, attempting to ease my concerns.

Lucy’s words carried a sense of conviction, and I couldn’t help but take solace in her assurance. As someone who had been by my side throughout this enigmatic journey, Lucy had a unique insight into the complexities of our situation.

“And I saw love in his eyes for you,” Lucy added, her words causing my heart to skip a beat. Love? The revelation left me stunned, and I found myself clutching the package containing the gown tightly in my fists.