Chapter 2

When Anne and Lennox’s brother got married, it was all done in a rush, just a quick signing of the marriage certificate, no wedding, no celebration.

Now, with Lennox giving her the title of “wife,” I thought, why not help her finally have the wedding she never got?

Anne’s expression softened when she heard me. After all, what woman hasn’t dreamed of being a beautiful bride?

Maybe Lennox also felt my suggestion wasn’t so crazy. His face shifted slightly, and he kept quiet.

I saw hesitation flicker in Anne’s eyes before she asked, “Can I really try it on?”

I nodded and waved to the staff to help her into the dress.

Meanwhile, Lennox was already in his groom suit, looking like he’d stepped out of a magazine.

When he saw Anne about to try on the dress, he began loosening his tie, clearly ready to change out of his own suit. But I stopped him, holding up my hand.

“Anne’s pregnant. She’s probably uncomfortable already. What if something happens, and you’re not here to help her?”

Lennox froze, standing there quietly. But I could see the unease in his eyes, and I couldn’t help but feel a little satisfaction.

I watched him, silently judging. Was he really doing this out of responsibility, or was it something more?

A few moments later, Anne stepped out of the fitting room, with the staff helping her.

Her pregnancy was still early enough that it wasn’t visible yet, and her figure was so similar to mine that the dress fit her perfectly. Anne’s excitement couldn’t be hidden, though she tried to downplay it.

“Lennox, how do I look?” she asked, her voice small. “Is it... nice?”

He stared at her for a moment, and I could see the softness in his eyes. After what felt like forever, he finally hummed in agreement.

Just then, another staff member walked over, her eyes widening. “Oh my God, that gown looks perfect on you! You two would be the most gorgeous bride and groom ever!”

The room went still. Everyone exchanged nervous glances, and Anne’s face tightened in panic. She quickly flashed a polite smile and stammered, “No, no, you misunderstood…”

Before she could finish, I clapped my hands together and said, loud enough for everyone to hear, “You’re right! Anne looks incredible. This dress was practically made for her!”

I turned to Lennox with a bright smile. “Why not let everyone enjoy seeing how beautiful she looks?”

Lennox’s eyes flicked to me in shock.

He knew me too well. I’d always been possessive of my things—especially something as important as this wedding dress. But now, not only was I letting her wear it, I was actually praising her for it.

He opened his mouth, clearly trying to say something, but the words wouldn’t come. Finally, he managed, “Kelly, you….”

I blinked, innocent as could be, and interrupted him. “Relax. I’m just being honest. Anyway, I’ve got some urgent work I need to take care of at the office. So, I’ll leave you two to it.”

Before he could respond, I turned on my heel and walked toward the door.

Lennox started to follow me, but Anne’s hand shot out, stopping him in his tracks.

As I reached the door, I glanced back. Lennox was carefully supporting Anne as they walked toward the fitting room. His hand was gentle on her back, his entire focus on her, like no one else existed in that moment.

A wave of something cold and bitter washed over me. Was he marrying her out of duty, as he claimed? Or had he actually fallen for her?

I didn’t know, and I wasn’t about to lower myself by asking.

The next day, I arrived at the hospital for my pre-op exam.

When the doctor asked about the father of the child, I shrugged it off, my voice casual. “He’s busy with work. He couldn’t make it.”

This morning, I had almost told Lennox about the baby. But after several unanswered calls, I gave up.

By the time the procedure was over, I was pale and weak. I had to lean against the cold hospital wall for support as I made my way out of the building.

But as soon as I stepped into the main lobby, I froze.

There, across the room, was Lennox. He was with Anne, sitting beside her for her prenatal checkup.