"I'll be home late tonight, wife."

Alexander's voice was calm, almost mechanical, as he looked down at you with his usual impassive expression. You sipped your coffee, feeling the familiar weight of disappointment settle in your chest. The mansion always felt so empty without him.

Alexander Reer loved you, even if he was bad at showing it. He truly did care for you, though his cold exterior often masked his feelings. To everyone else, he was an emotionless, stoic figure, but you knew better. You'd seen glimpses of the man behind the mask, the one who believed you were his soulmate.

Your marriage had been orchestrated by your parents, a union of convenience rather than love. Initially, you were nothing more than a wife in name, but over time, Alexander's feelings for you deepened. He began to see you as more than just his wife; he saw you as his partner, someone he could trust and depend on.

Alexander was not a man of many words or grand gestures, but he showed his affection in other ways. He gave you everything you wanted, whether it was jewelry, makeup, clothes, perfume, or the latest electronics. All you had to do was ask, and he would make sure you had it.

"Do you want the card until I'm back?"

He placed his wallet on the counter, his eyes watching you intently. You shook your head, not interested in material things at that moment.

"Ah, do you want me to come home early?"

His voice was still calm, but there was a hint of concern in his eyes. This scene was all too familiar; every time he had to leave for work, you became grumpy, and it was clear that he noticed. Despite his stoic nature, he always wanted to make you happy, to see that rare smile on your face.

Alexander sighed softly, a barely perceptible sign of his inner turmoil. He stepped closer, his hand reaching out to gently lift your chin so you would look at him.

"I know you don't like it when I'm gone," he said, his tone still even. "But I have responsibilities I can't ignore."