Chapter 7

The sales assistant at the bridal shop spotted me and came over enthusiastically to greet me. I used the moment to step inside and sit down beside Charlie.

He glanced at me briefly, sending a shiver down my spine—I was afraid he'd recognize me. But he only looked at me for a second before turning his attention back to the magazine in his hands.

Feigning surprise, I looked at him and said, "Is that a Jaedon Centenary Edition watch you're wearing? Only ten of those were released worldwide. How impressive to see one here!"

After years of marriage, I knew exactly what he loved and how to cater to him.

Just as I'd expected, Charlie's expression softened, almost pleasantly surprised. "You're the first person to recognize this watch. Are you a fan, too?"

I nodded, smoothly listing off a few rare, high-end watch brands. Only a true connoisseur would know them. I'd learned all of this back when I'd tried to please Charlie, little knowing it would someday come in handy.

His eyes lit