Chapter 1 Light Restored

In the hospital room, Olivia Smith slowly opened her eyes.

This time, instead of the familiar darkness, she was staring at the ceiling above her.

She blinked rapidly, making sure it wasn't an illusion. When she realized it was real, a rush of joy and disbelief surged through her.

She could see… finally.

Had the blood clots pressing against her optic nerve—left there after the car accident when she saved Austin Roberts—finally dissolved?

Her smile was impossible to hide. She couldn't wait to tell Austin. For two years he had lived with the guilt of her blindness. Knowing she could see again would make him happy… she was sure of it.

The door opened and Austin stepped in, taking her hand. His voice was tight with worry and guilt.

"Olivia, I'm sorry. I stepped out to deal with work and wasn't here when you fell and hit your head. How are you feeling now?"

She looked at him, at the redness in his eyes from worry, ready to tell him the truth—that she could see again.

But then her gaze landed on his tie. A white silk tie… with a lipstick stain.

Her breath caught. The world seemed to tilt. She had never imagined Austin would cheat.

Two years ago, she had lost her sight saving him. He had sworn to take care of her for the rest of his life. And now, only two years later, he had already broken that promise.

Austin noticed her change in expression and leaned closer.

"Olivia… what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"

She blinked and shook her head. "I'm fine."

Beneath the blanket, her hand curled into a fist.

Her mind was a blur. She didn't even tell him about her regained sight. And then his phone chimed.

Perhaps thinking she couldn't see, Austin sat on the edge of her bed and replied to the message.

She watched his lips curve into a smile that lingered. He looked… happy. Too happy. Like a man texting his lover.

Her heart sank further.

"Olivia, if you feel uncomfortable in any way, you must tell me," he said after finishing his reply, still wearing the mask of a caring husband.

Olivia's voice was calm. "Austin, I don't want to stay in the hospital anymore. I want to go home."

His smile faltered for a heartbeat before returning. "Alright. I'll handle the paperwork this afternoon."

"I remember your birthday is in three days," she said softly. "I've prepared a gift for you."

Austin's face lit up. "You always know how to make me happy."

She forced a faint smile.

The gift had been ready for weeks—a branded leather belt. But now, inside the box would be divorce papers. She wanted to see his face when he opened it.

Austin worked quickly, and by afternoon they were back at the villa.

Olivia let him guide her inside, her gaze sweeping over the place she had called home for two years.

The deeper she looked, the more the invisible wound in her heart tore open.

This was their marital home. Every detail had been arranged by her own hands. She could tell instantly what had changed.

The tulips she loved in the living room were gone, replaced by lilies.

The framed photo of them in the bedroom had vanished.

The plush toys she used to keep at the foot of the bed—gone.

Her light-colored dresses in the wardrobe—gone. In their place, rows of dark-toned clothing.

The house carried traces of another woman.

Austin settled her on the sofa and spoke gently. "Olivia, do you want me to help you with a bath? Your eyes… you still can't see clearly."

She tilted her head up at him. His hand lingered at her waist, fingers stroking in a way she knew too well.

"Since you were admitted, we haven't been close," he murmured. "I've missed you, Olivia."

He leaned in to kiss her.

She turned her head away at the last second, letting out a sneeze.

Her tone was deliberate. "I think I caught a cold last night… I forgot to close the window."

Austin pulled back instantly. "I'll get you some medicine."

"Alright."

That night, they lay back to back in bed.

Olivia stared at the ceiling, wide awake. The ache in her chest spread like frost, slow and merciless.

Then—soft footsteps outside the door.

Someone entered the bedroom.

Olivia saw the woman's face clearly. She knew her.

Lucia Ember.

Austin's former lover.

Years ago, when Austin faced bankruptcy, Lucia had packed up and left without hesitation. If Olivia hadn't stayed by his side, finding contacts and securing deals, he would never have recovered.

Lucia sauntered to the bed.

Austin's eyes widened in shock. He grabbed her arm.

Lucia slid onto his lap, looping her arms around his neck.

She was dressed to provoke—black lingerie that barely covered the essentials. Her hand moved toward him.

Austin froze, blocking her touch, shooting her a warning look and tilting his head toward Olivia, as if to remind her not to go too far.

Olivia watched it all, her nails digging into her palm.

She blinked, feigning confusion. "I thought I heard someone come in. Who is it?"

"Just a maid… she needed something from me. Go back to sleep, Olivia. I'll be right back," Austin said quickly, dragging Lucia out of the room.

Olivia's face hardened.

She slipped out of bed and followed.

Austin pulled Lucia into the study. He didn't close the door completely—leaving a narrow gap.

From the corner, Olivia could see Lucia nestled against Austin's chest.

She couldn't hear their words, but Austin's gaze softened… dangerously so.

Then Lucia rose onto her toes, and their lips met.

Olivia staggered back, trembling. Her mind replayed the kiss over and over.

How many times had this happened in the two years she was blind?

Austin had truly cheated—bringing his mistress right into their home…