CUPID IN CHAINS

Chapter XVI

CUPID IN CHAINS

Chapter XVI

Jennie

I felt betrayed and resentful. How could I have been so naïve and trusting of Lisa's word? I should have known better. I watched her lie and came up with stories in the drop of a hat, still, I believe in her promises.

I had hoped for a moment of freedom, a chance to be myself without the weight of our unconventional relationship looming over me. But her announcement shattered those hopes, reminding me that I was still bound to her.

Before I could fully comprehend what was happening, Lisa was walking in my direction with a smile on her face. For others it was a sweet smile but for me it was a smile that held threat and malice.

"Honey" She called as she held her hands to me. I heard the gasp of people around us, but I was so frustrated to care. I looked at her hands and was tempted to disregard it and walk out but then I caught the expectant gaze of Mrs. Omar, who was looking at us.

I swallowed the constricting feeling in my throat as I reluctantly took Lisa's hands. In an instant, I was pulled into her arms.

"Everyone I would like to introduce to you my wife, Jennie Kim Manoban" Lisa redirected to the crowd as she proudly introduced me. "Sorry, my wife is just a little shy," she said, her tone light but firm. "She prefers to keep our relationship private, especially in a professional setting like this. I hope it's okay hon, the medical mission already ended, you're not mad, are you?"

Mad? Am I mad? I thought to myself, my mind spinning with disbelief. No, I'm seething!

But amidst the turmoil of emotions, I knew that causing a scene here would only make things worse. So, with a forced smile and a light shook of my head, I replied, "No, of course not. I'm not mad at all. I just don't want to make anyone uncomfortable."

It was clear now that I could never truly trust her, not when her own ego and need for control took precedence over everything else!

Egoistic and control freak!

I heard Mrs. Omar squeal as she came to us. "I remember when I was newlywed too," she began, a nostalgic smile playing on her lips. "My husband wouldn't let go of me, he would also follow me anywhere I go," she chuckled, reminiscing about her own experiences. I forced myself to smile. Well Lisa could go to hell, and I wouldn't care. I angrily thought as I clenched my fist.

"Please, everyone, continue with your dinner and drinks," Lisa announced, breaking the stunned silence that had settled over the crowd.

I sigh. This is a disaster.

Doctor Yoo immediately approached us, his expression apologetic. "Doctor Jennie, I apologize for the banter yesterday. I didn't know you were Mrs. Manoban's wife," he said earnestly. "I heard the news about Mrs. Manoban getting married, but you know, people in the medical community don't have much time to sit down and listen to the news," he added, scratching his head in embarrassment.

Internally, I winced. This was exactly what I had been trying to avoid. I didn't want people around me to feel uncomfortable or treat me differently if they ever found out about my connection with Lisa.

"It's okay Doctor Yoo, I wanted to be part of the team for the doctor that I am not because of my wife. You don't have to treat me differently and I enjoy our banters." I smiled at him, and he nodded eagerly.

"I will Doctor Jen."

Mrs. Omar requested another chair on the table. Lisa settled beside me, and I watched Kai as he excused himself to get some air. I sigh as I watch him walk away, I wanted to follow him and explain everything. I think he deserves an explanation and clarity. He is a great guy, and I don't want to lose a friend.