“Gian, is this putting a lot of pressure on you?”
“I just believe that if something is worth doing, it’s worth doing right,” Gian said. “I can’t let you be wronged in this.”
“In any case, thank you,” Kirsten said, looking at him. “Thank you for being willing to help me and for doing so much.”
“We’re friends, aren’t we?” Gian smiled, his voice gentle. “Helping each other is what friends do.”
Kirsten weighed his words. He had a point; it was essentially a partnership.
“Gian,” Kirsten said, “I’ll also take full responsibility for this relationship.”
“Responsibility for what?”
Gian gripped the steering wheel, a faint smile playing on his lips as he explained, “When I say I’ll take responsibility, I’m talking about the engagement itself.”
“Your only job is to enjoy your life. Live it just as you always have, without any restrictions.”
Kirsten paused, not expecting him to say that.
“Even if you meet someone you like, you can still date them,” Gian continued calmly. “This is just a formal alliance. It won’t interfere with your freedom in any way.”
He knew Kirsten cherished her freedom and disliked being tied down by marriage.
Kirsten leaned back in her seat and slowly nodded, a complex mix of emotions swirling inside her—gratitude, guilt, and that same unidentifiable flutter in her heart.
“I was just worried you’d be too busy,” Kirsten said. “You have your work, and now you have to deal with all of this. I’m afraid you won’t be able to manage.”
Kirsten was speechless. “Well, if you put it that way, I guess I have no choice but to enjoy it.”
That night, Kirsten called Danielle to tell her that her family had disapproved and had given Gian a hard time.
Danielle knew the real reason. “Your mother has her own considerations.”
“Gian will find a way, don’t worry.”
“You’re right,” Kirsten agreed. “He’s a rock, a real calming influence.”
After a brief chat with Danielle, she hung up. Kirsten showered and went to bed, sleeping soundly without a single dream. Just as Gian had said, the marriage alliance was purely a formality for her. She didn’t have to deal with tedious details or navigate complex relationships. She could remain as carefree as ever, unburdened by obligations. With nothing to worry about, even her sleep was deeper.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Wife You Buried Is Back from Hell