Chapter 1

Leaving the Austin Manor and standing on the bustling street, I was at a loss for a moment. Since marrying into the Austin family five years ago, I had been like a caged canary, never stepping out of that prison.

The isolated life had almost severed all my connections with this bustling city.

Fortunately, this nightmare only lasted five years, not longer.

I first checked into a hotel and handed my credit card to the receptionist. “Help me buy a flight ticket back to my hometown. I’ll stay here for a few days.”

The hotel promptly managed all arrangements. Despite the morning flight tomorrow, the city turned tumultuous by this afternoon.

I peeked through the curtain to spot police cars and officers flooding the street. Since Albert assumed command three years back, the city enjoyed peace, winning commendations from municipal leaders.

In the evening, when room service brought dinner, they specially reminded me. “It seems there’s a major case. The police are searching the whole city. Please stay in the room. A special car will take you to the airport tomorrow morning.”

That night, despite my closed windows and doors, the flashing lights of the police cars still shone through the curtains into the room.

I guessed that Albert must have encountered a difficult case. But with his ability, he would surely solve it soon. He was consistently shrewd, efficient, and dedicated to his job…

This was how an elite should be… This was how Albert should be, as always. At dawn the next day, I got into the car arranged by the hotel.

The city exit was unobstructed. After a brief conversation between the driver and the traffic police on duty, we smoothly left.

Sitting in the back seat, I faintly heard the urgent siren in the distance.

“Madam, please rest assured,” the driver said softly, looking at me in the rearview mirror.

“Although the city has ordered checkpoints, we have safely passed. We’ll be at the airport soon.”

Stepping out of the car, a drizzle began. Holding my boarding pass, I smoothly passed through security and boarded the flight home.

Five years into marriage, I was left with a desolate heart, losing all my anticipations. As the cabin door shut, I glimpsed a black car racing to the airport through the rain, its window partway down.

In such heavy rain, the person inside must be soaked. I didn’t know who the car was there to pick up. But whoever it was for, it was already taken. I returned to my hometown and used my savings to buy a small house near the lake.