Chapter 1

As I massaged my half-paralyzed husband, Brandon Carter, a flicker of sensation ran through his left foot.

I was ecstatic. I immediately called Dr. Miller for a re-examination.

The result came back: "Still nothing. The chances of your husband ever walking again are practically zero."

I gritted my teeth. "It's okay. I'll take care of him for the rest of my life."

Tears blurring my vision, I headed to work.

Halfway there, I realized I’d forgotten my car keys and had to turn back.

Through the crack in the door, I saw Brandon, who was supposed to be confined to his hospital bed.

He was standing, pinning Skylar Reed against the wall, kissing her with frenzied abandon.

"How much longer do we have to lie to her? Being together always feels so risky, it's driving me crazy."

"Just a little longer. In a few days, I'll figure out a way to fake my death. Then, we can take the money and move abroad."

My mind cleared instantly. So, his suicide attempt five years ago had all been a sham.

It was just a ploy to escape his company’s debt crisis and spend every waking moment with Skylar.

I stood there in silence for a long time, then walked into Dr. Miller’s office.

"I've made up my mind. I'm stopping my husband's treatment. Proceed directly with the amputation."