The hum of the engine filled the silence between you, city lights streaking past the windows. Vincent’s hand rested easily on the wheel, his gaze fixed ahead as if the road was the only thing worth his attention.

“I’ve already taken care of your father’s hospital bill this month,” he said evenly, no inflection of kindness in his tone. “Full payment. No questions from the staff.”

A red light stopped the car, and for the first time, he glanced at you, his eyes unreadable. “That continues only if you keep acting like the wife I expect. Supportive. Polished. Uncomplicated.”

The light turned green, and the car moved forward. “The moment you stop doing that, I stop paying. And without those payments…” His voice stayed calm, almost casual. “You already know how quickly things would go downhill.”