Chapter 181: It’s Really Unpleasant to Be Questioned by My Wife
“Ambrose has contacted you before, right?”
As the name “Ambrose” flashed through Galatea’s mind, Alaric’s sudden question caught her off guard. She blinked, but quickly regained her composure. It was normal for Alaric to make such an assumption. “Yes,” she answered honestly.
“Was it the day you stayed late in the cemetery?”
Alaric’s question hit a nerve. If nothing significant had happened that day, Galatea wouldn’t have had such an emotional reaction.
She nodded, guilt creeping in. “I’m sorry, Alaric. I didn’t mean to hide it from you.”
“I know,” Alaric replied, his tone softer than expected. He rubbed her head affectionately and smiled. “Even between husband and wife, there are secrets. But if something unresolved comes up, you should always tell me.”
Galatea hadn’t expected this level of understanding from him. In the past, Alaric had been domineering, always wanting to know everything. Now, though, he was more gentle and patient.
Galatea took a deep breath and continued, “That day, after you left the hotel, Ambrose came to me. He said he had evidence.”
Alaric’s brows furrowed as he processed her words. “Evidence of what?”
Galatea hesitated but decided to be transparent. “But Ambrose’s condition for handing over the evidence was for me to return to his side.”
Alaric’s face twisted in disbelief. “Such despicable behavior,” he muttered, before letting out a long breath. “I’m glad you didn’t fall for it. But I’m also relieved that you told me the truth.”
“I didn’t expect him to be like this,” Galatea said softly, her voice tinged with sadness. “I was so naive back then. I actually fell for Ambrose.”
Alaric’s heart went out to her. “Such a scumbag… I feel sorry for you,” he said, pulling her into a tight embrace. “But you’re here with me now, and that’s all that matters. If Ambrose hadn’t left, I would have never had a chance with you. I’m so glad you didn’t give in to his blackmail and chose to trust me instead.”
“I believe you,” Galatea whispered, looking up at him with affection. “And I’m thankful for that. You’ve always been there for me.”
“Alright,” Alaric said, kissing her forehead gently, “the past is behind us. Things are only going to get better from here on out. Let’s go pay our respects to our parents.”
Taking her hand, Alaric led her to the graveyard.
“Mom, Dad,” he spoke quietly to the photos of Barbara and Brennan on the tombstone, “I promise I’ll take care of Galatea. I’ll protect her with all my heart.”
Galatea smiled softly and added, “Mom, Dad, this is my husband. He’s responsible and just. You don’t need to worry about me anymore.”
Alaric’s heart swelled with pride at her words, and he squeezed her hand.
“You know,” Galatea began, a bittersweet smile on her face, “Even though my mom passed away early, my dad loved her deeply. He was such a man of integrity and respect, but he never remarried. No matter who came after him, he always refused, and his phone screen always displayed a photo of Mom. It was so romantic.”
A deep sigh escaped her as she thought of her parents. Theirs had been a love story cut short too soon.
Galatea continued, “My dad was my idol. He was handsome, capable, ambitious—he was everything a man should be. And he was a good husband, a good father. But in the end, he left this world with so many misunderstandings and accusations. It just doesn’t seem fair. Why do good people have to suffer so much?”
Alaric, noticing the sadness in her eyes, quickly tried to lighten the mood. “So my father-in-law was a rare gem, huh? With such a role model, I’d better be on my best behavior. I’m feeling the pressure.”
Galatea chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Of course, after we get married, if you can’t live up to my dad’s standards, I’ll divorce you on the spot.”
Alaric grinned widely. “Alright, I’ll do my best to be like your father.”
The playful banter helped ease the tension, and they spent a long time chatting with Barbara and Brennan, sharing memories and hopes. It was nearly dark when they finally left the mountain.
Later that evening, Alaric took Galatea to a quiet Japanese restaurant. “This time, it’s not a couple-themed restaurant. I thought I’d have Harry and Elisa picked up. It’s been a while since I’ve seen them, and I really miss them.”
Galatea glanced at the time and shook her head. “It’s late already. They’ve probably finished dinner and are doing their homework.”
Alaric checked his watch and realized she was right. It was already quite late, and the sky had darkened.
“Then, next time,” he said with a smile. “Tonight, it’s just the two of us.”
Galatea smiled back, happy to see him so content.
As dinner came to a close, Alaric leaned back in his chair and said, “Nexus Innovations isn’t too far from here. I’ll have James drive the car back, and we can walk back together.”
Galatea raised an eyebrow. “It’s close by car, but walking will take at least forty minutes. I’m fine with it, but can you handle it?”
Alaric laughed, shaking his head. “I’m not that fragile, Galatea. Forty minutes is nothing. Besides, I have no adverse reactions right now. I’ll have to rest again after the injection the day after tomorrow, so I might as well get some exercise.”
Galatea rolled her eyes. “Alright, let’s walk back after dinner then.”
Alaric gave instructions to James to drive the car back and took Galatea’s hand as they began walking together through the quiet streets.
The night air was cool, and under the starry sky, the two of them walked hand in hand, the city lights casting a warm glow around them.
After a few minutes, Galatea glanced up at Alaric. “Don’t be stubborn. If you’re tired, we can take a taxi back.”
Alaric’s face darkened slightly at her suggestion. “It’s really unpleasant to be doubted by my wife,” he said, his tone teasing yet sincere. “I’m a special forces veteran. Even with the residual effects of my injuries, my physical fitness is still above average. As long as I’m not sick, I can handle it.”
Before she could respond, he bent down and lifted her onto his back with a grin. “Come on. I’ll carry you.”
Galatea gasped in surprise but couldn’t help laughing. “You’re unbelievable!”
“Not as unbelievable as my stamina,” Alaric joked, his voice filled with warmth.
And so, with Galatea laughing on his back, they walked together into the night, enjoying each other’s company as the world around them faded into the background.