The lawyer raised an eyebrow but nodded. Understood. And I want you to quietly begin drafting divorce papers.
Yes, sir. Amara watched closely. This was not the broken man she had met weeks ago.
This was Michael Williams, the lion who was learning how to roar again. That night, Ruth returned home drunk.
She didn’t see Michael waiting for her in the hallway. Had a good night, he asked coldly.
She jumped in shock. What? What are you doing here? I wanted to stretch my legs, he replied sarcastically.
Though that’s something you wouldn’t understand, Ruth hissed. So now you’re monitoring my movements. I’ve been watching everything, Ruth.
Her eyes widened as he rolled closer. Derek, Michael said slowly. Tattoo on the neck, black car.
She gasped. You don’t even hide it anymore, he continued. You walk out like a queen, forgetting that this is my kingdom, my house, my name.
Michael I. He raised his hand. Don’t insult me with lies. From today, I am not your weak husband.
I’ve spoken to my lawyer. If you want to leave, leave, but you’ll walk away with nothing.
Ruth screamed. You can’t do this. I can, he replied calmly. And I just did.
She lunged forward to slap him, but Amora stepped between them. Don’t, Amora said quietly, looking Ruth straight in the eyes.
Don’t lower yourself further. Ruth froze. Then she laughed bitterly, turned round, and stormed off.
Michael looked at Amora, his eyes red. I’m sorry you had to see that. Amora shook her head.
I’m just glad you finally stood up, even without your legs. He gave a faint smile.
Later that night, Ruth returned to Michael’s room. She knelt beside his wheelchair, crying, gripping his hand tightly.
“Michael, please,” she sobbed. “I’m sorry. I know I messed up. I’ve changed. I swear I’ve changed.
Please don’t leave me.” Michael said nothing. “That man you saw me with,” she continued quickly, “is my cousin.
I just forgot to introduce him properly. It was a misunderstanding. The devil is trying to destroy our marriage.
Baby, please don’t fall for it. She cried harder. I was foolish. I didn’t realize what I had until I almost lost it.
You are my husband. I still love you. Please forgive me. Let’s start again. I promise I’ll do better.
Michael looked at her for a long moment. Then he spoke calmly. I’ll tell my lawyer to hold on, but listen carefully.
I’ll observe you for a while. If you don’t change, Ruth, you’re out of my house.
Ruth wiped her tears quickly and forced a smile. Thank you, baby. Thank you. I won’t disappoint you.
She kissed his hand, stood up, and walked out of the room. But the moment Ruth stepped into the hallway, her crying face disappeared.
Her lips curled into a cold smile. She walked fast to her room, locked the door behind her, and suddenly burst into quiet laughter.
“This man thinks I have time for him,” she muttered to herself. She faced the mirror and said it again like she was talking to her reflection.
“This man thinks I have time for him.” Her eyes narrowed. “He’ll regret ever doubting me.
I’ll deal with him slowly. He has no idea what I’m capable of.” Later that evening, Michael was in his study when Amara entered with his dinner.
“Thank you, Amara,” he said softly. “Please sit.” Amara sat across from him, careful and quiet.
“My wife came to me again,” Michael began. Amara looked at him. “What did she say this time?”
“She begged me,” he said. She claimed she has changed. She said the man I saw her with is her cousin.
She even said, “The devil is trying to ruin our marriage.” Amora blinked. Do you believe her?
So Michael let out a long breath. “No, but I told her I will observe her for a while.”
Amora nodded slowly. “I still don’t trust her,” Michael added. “That’s why I want you to help me.”
Amora frowned. “Ow, so help me keep a close eye on her,” he said. I want to know what she’s doing behind my back.
Amara hesitated, her expression uneasy. Sir, do you think that’s a good idea? Michael looked at her seriously.
I know what I’m doing. Amara was quiet for a moment. Then she spoke gently.
So instead of focusing so much on her, why don’t you focus on yourself? You’ve been in this wheelchair for too long.
Start exercising again. Even small movements, it might help your healing. Michael stared at her for a long time.
Then his voice changed softer, deeper. Amora. Yes, sir. I love you. Amore froze. So, what did you say?
You heard me, Michael said, his voice steady. I love you, Amara. From the first day you came here, you’ve been the light in this house.
You’ve helped me more than anyone. Amara looked down, shocked and confused. Her heart raced.
So, I think you’re stressed, she said quickly. You need to relax. Please. I’ve never been more serious, Michael replied.
Amara stood up slowly, avoiding his eyes. “Sir, please don’t say things that can’t happen.
You’re still married, and I’m just your maid.” Without waiting for a reply, she turned and walked out quietly.
Michael sat alone in silence, staring at the door where she disappeared. His chest felt tight, like his heart was too full.
In the living room, Ruth sat on the couch with her legs crossed, scrolling through her phone.
A smack played on her lips. When she heard Amara walking past, she called out sweetly, “Am stopped.”
Yes, ma. Come and sit with me, Ruth said calmly. I want to talk to you.
Amara hesitated, but she obeyed. She sat at the edge of the sofa, hands folded neatly on her lap.
Ruth smiled like a kind person, like a sister. Tell me something, Ruth said gently.
Do you want to further your education? Amore looked surprised. Yes, ma. I would love to go to the university.
It has always been my dream. Ruth leaned closer. How would you feel if I helped you travel abroad for your education?
Amara gasped. Really? You would do that for me? Of course, Ruth said with a fake smile.
You’ll attend a good public school there. Life will be better for you. You deserve more than cleaning this big house everyday.
Amore’s heart jumped with hope. Thank you, Ma. But may I ask, why are you saying all this?
Ruth’s smile slowly disappeared. Her eyes turned serious. Her voice dropped low. I need you to do something for me.
Amara blinked. What is it, Ma? Ruth looked around, then opened her handbag. She pulled out a small white packet and placed it gently into Amara’s palm.
Put this in my husband’s food. Amara stared at the packet, then looked up, confused.
Ma, what is this? Rof leaned back. It’s just something to help him get better.
