Beyond the Divorce by Third Blossom

I couldn't tell if he knew what he was saying.

"The car accident was my fault, and she ended up like that because of me. I wasn't a good husband. She became paralyzed, yet I fell in love with another woman..." Oliver admitted it with remorse.

"When I faced her, I felt guilty and conflicted. I struggled, and she tolerated my mistakes. I felt truly sorry toward her, but I can't deny that I love you—"

"Oliver!" Lauren interrupted sternly. "There's a higher power watching over us. Your wife is watching you, too. Don't try to redeem yourself with me. I'm not a savior. I'm just an ordinary woman trying to live her life. Spare me."

As Lauren spoke, she became increasingly agitated, suddenly sitting up from the bed. Her pale face twisted, and she clutched her chest.

Alarmed, I rushed forward. "Lauren, don't move. It's dangerous..."

Considering her fractured ribs and concussion, such sudden movements were undoubtedly risky.

"Haven't I made myself clear?" she said, raising her hand to stop me from getting closer. "My life doesn't revolve around you, and I won't be your accessory again. I have dignity, and I don't want to live as repressed as you.

of my past actions. When I see you, it brings back the memories of my shame and the mockery from everyone in Foswood. Just fulfill your

paused and was gasping

like she found a pillar of support, so she continued, "Don't pull me into this shameful situation, where I have to face society's

deep breath and clutched my hand, clearly supporting

best years of my life, and I'm no longer in my prime. If you want someone as a trophy wife, there are plenty of young women flocking

she had exhausted all her strength.

a

blood trickled

corner of

"Lauren..." Oliver sounded panicked.

please don't do this! Lie down...

suddenly went limp, collapsing into

the call button, and

"Lauren!"

gently faid her back on