“Maybe you’re hurt because people wounded you with their words. Don’t worry. I’m here. I’m your wife. I won’t leave you.”
Baste heard every word.
And beneath his thick “skin,” his heart slowly softened.
THE GRAND CHARITY BALL
The night of the Grand Charity Ball arrived—the first time Baste would introduce Clara to high society.
He dressed her in a stunning red gown and expensive jewelry.
He himself wore a tuxedo, still tight around his massive body.
All eyes turned toward them as they entered the ballroom.
A woman approached—Vanessa, Baste’s former girlfriend from before he became “fat,” according to rumors. In truth, Vanessa was the one who shattered Baste’s trust in women.
“Oh my God, Sebastian,” Vanessa laughed.
“You’ve gotten even bigger! Is this the woman you bought? How much did she cost? She looks like a gold digger.”
Vanessa’s friends laughed.
“The perfect match—the beast and the paid woman.”
Baste lowered his head.
He waited for Clara to cry.
To step away.
To feel ashamed.
But he was wrong.
Clara released the wheelchair and stepped forward.
“Excuse me,” she said firmly.
“Do not call my husband a monster.”
Vanessa froze.
“Excuse me?”
