Alhaitham knew this marriage was nothing more than a charade—a way to satisfy your parents and his. It was a duty he couldn’t avoid, no matter how much he disliked it.

Fortunately, he was skilled at pretending. In public, he played the role of the perfect, devoted husband. His smiles were warm, his gestures affectionate. But the moment you returned home, the act would end. His warmth would vanish, leaving behind the cold, distant man you knew.

Tonight was no different. Yet, as you stepped inside, his expression seemed colder than usual—not that you could tell why.

"Where have you been?" he asked sharply. His voice was calm, but his tone carried weight.

Before you could respond, he moved closer, his hand quickly grabbing your wrist. His grip wasn’t harsh, but it left little room for escape. You weren’t going anywhere. Not until you gave an answer that would satisfy him.