Chapter 10
I moved back in with Jackson, and, due to the Elaine scandal, he was temporarily suspended from work.
During his suspension, Jackson stayed by my side every day, doting on me, bringing me tea, and tending to my every need.
He changed his phone password to our wedding anniversary, giving me full access to check it anytime.
He told me it felt like we were newlyweds again.
But I knew we could never go back to the past.
Time doesn’t stop, and life slowly returned to its usual routine.
Jackson became busy again, often disappearing for days. The Elaine scandal faded into obscurity.
Her uncle was reinstated, and thanks to their close ties, Jackson’s career at the company was thriving once more.
He rarely came home, and I frequently received texts from Elaine.
“What’s the point of a wife who can’t keep her husband? What’s her existence worth?”
She attached a photo of Jackson taking her son to the amusement park.
“Losing one useless daughter is bad enough. You finally had a boy, and he was stillborn. It’s only a matter of time before Jackson throws you away”
Another photo showed Jackson, shirtless, sleeping beside her.
I ignored her, mentally adding it to the list.
Recently, Jackson had been busy with preparations for the launch of a new product. The launch event was next week.
As an investor, my family had, of course, been invited.
“Larissa, after the launch, let’s go on vacation, okay? Anywhere you want to go, I’ll be there with you.”
I scoffed inwardly.
Jackson, I want you to go to hell.
On the day of the launch, I dressed him in a black suit I’d specifically picked out for him.
Today is your death day. Mourn yourself.
“Larissa, after today, the entire medical community will know my name. I’ll no longer have to cater to those old men. You have to stay by my side and witness my success.”
“Yes, I’ll be right there with you.”
With you, until you reach the edge of the cliff -and then I’ll push you into the abyss.
Jackson took the stage with confidence, basking in the applause from all sides. Pinned to his chest was the trumpet flower brooch I had chosen for him.
He momentarily froze when he saw both Elaine and me in the audience but quickly regained his composure.
He spoke with confidence and authority, drawing constant flashes from the cameras below.
After his speech, he soaked in the praise from everyone around him.
I stood up from my seat, and Jackson came over to take my hand.
“Let me introduce you to my wife, Larissa.”
I took the microphone from him, paused for a moment, and then began to speak.
“Distinguished colleagues, members of the press, hello. I am Larissa, the mother of the victim in the Elaine incident.”