---- unexpectedly, and we both fell into the pool. Simon knew I was afraid of water, yet without hesitation, he jumped in, only to pull Carly out first. Later, holding my hand, he explained, "Carly is Ryan's wife. Saving her was a favor to the Schumans to secure our family's position." But the way he looked at Carly was filled with a love he couldn't hide. I caught a chill in that cold water, and the illness took root inside me. It took six months of care before I began to heal. Now, looking back, all the signs were there. I was too naive to see the truth until I was drowning in it. Thankfully, it wasn't too late to wake up. Teresa Barker's birthday was coming up ina ---- month. She was Simon's grandmother, and she had always been kind to me. I planned to celebrate with her one last time before I officially left the Barkers. Simon didn't come home until late, smelling of alcohol. When he walked into the room, I was reviewing my asset list. Rubbing his temples, he looked puzzled. "Why are you looking at all this stuff?" I glanced at the lipstick stain on his collar. "No reason. I was bored, so I thought I'd check." He let out a quiet sigh of relief and came over to hold me like usual. "I've been crazy busy at work lately. I'm sorry I haven't had time for you. I hope you're not mad at me." ---- His eyes were gentle, filled with a familiar tenderness. For a brief moment, I almost believed he really loved me.