Chapter 138: The Dog They Raised Together

Bella froze. It seemed to be true. While he was abroad, and even after his return, she’d felt constantly pressured. But things had recently changed—suddenly and dramatically. He allowed her to do things she’d never dreamed possible, like sitting in the passenger seat of his car. He’d even bought her two cars so she wouldn't have to use public transport. The most obvious change? He desired her, even when sober, kissing her intimately.

Her life had quietly transformed, yet she'd never questioned it. Why had their lives changed? No one wanted to revisit those dark days.

She didn't answer his question. Instead, she slipped under his arm, turning away. "I'm too exhausted. I want to sleep. I don't have to go to the hospital tomorrow, so I'd like to sleep in. Could you please tell Sylvia not to prepare my breakfast? Thank you."

A complex expression flickered across Dominic's face as he watched her leave.

Once the door closed, Bella sighed with relief. She saw life not as beautiful, but as troubled and harsh. She didn't dare to claim anything that wasn't hers. In her opinion, even sweets from someone who hated her would taste bitter.

The next day, she slept until 10:00 a.m. Leaning against her windowsill, she looked out. The sun was pleasant; flowers bloomed below. But a figure stood out: Dominic, sitting in the garden, reviewing documents. He hadn't gone to the office.

After considering this, she went downstairs. A car was parked outside—a pink Porsche. She knew who was inside: Amber, who'd intentionally wrecked her old car and replaced it with an identical one.

Instinctively, Bella wanted to hide, but the car door opened as she turned. A large black dog rushed out, excitedly waving its tail at Dominic, trying to jump the gate.

The dog immediately caught Bella's attention. She loved animals, and this was a beautifully built Labrador. Strangely, the dog was silent, not barking once. Dominic didn't look up until Amber called, "Dominic!"

He glanced at the dog first, then quickly put down his papers, opening the gate. The dog circled him excitedly, clearly overjoyed to be reunited. After playing with the dog, Dominic asked Amber, "Why did you bring Pudding?"

Amber pursed her lips, saying flirtatiously, "Pudding was depressed after you returned. We aren't married, we don't have children, but we raised this dog together. You can't just abandon your responsibility. You spent a lot of time with him, and he's closer to you than me. So, I brought him for a visit while I settle things." Dominic's gaze remained on the dog; he didn't refute her. His adoration for Pudding was clear.

A pang of pain shot through Bella's heart as she returned to her room. However, she listened to the sounds from downstairs, gauging whether Amber was staying and whether she needed to "make space" again.

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