In reality, Marcus was just stringing Jessica along. After all, she was just an ordinary soldier at the time. Instead, he was holding out for someone he considered more impressive.
I visited the college to inquire about the necessary preparations required for enrollment, as well as living expenses. Only after I had all the details straight did I feel reassured enough to head back.
When I returned to Jessica's military housing and walked through the door, I heard Marcus whisper, "Jess, you rushed back to be with me instead of accompanying Zach. Won't he be upset?"
"I can spend time with him anytime," she replied. "But you're unwell, and I don't feel comfortable leaving you alone at home."
He chuckled, his voice dropping into a teasingly forlorn tone. "Will you still treat me well after you marry him?"
"Of course," Jessica replied firmly. "Who else would I be nice to if not you? If Zachary mistreats you, I'll divorce him."
My fists clenched tightly as I fought to swallow the bitter pang in my heart. Even after a second chance at life, hearing her speak of me with such cold indifference still stung.
I composed myself and walked into the house as if nothing had happened.
Noticing my presence, Jessica walked out of Marcus' room with a hint of embarrassment on her face. She explained, "I-I just saw Marcus wasn't feeling well, so I went in to check on him."
I gave a noncommittal hum and returned to my room.
In my past life, I'd argued with her countless times over their ambiguous relationship. But in this life, I wasn't going to bother anymore.
She called after me, "Zachary, why don't we buy some wedding favors to give out to the neighbors?"
I glanced at her in surprise, then realized this was probably her way of compensating me for not making a fuss.
"No need. There's no point in such formalities," I answered.
She froze for a moment, probably finding it hard to believe that I'd actually refuse her suggestion.
"Zach, are you upset because Jess took care of me?"
Marcus emerged from his room, his face the picture of hurt and innocence. He was wearing the dress suit I'd specifically bought for my wedding photos. I'd scrimped and saved for half a year in my previous life to afford it, but never once wore it.
Seeing my gaze, he hastily explained, "I saw this outfit on your bed today and thought it looked nice, so I tried it on. I forgot to take it off."
He lowered his head, wringing his fingers together like a child who'd done something wrong.
Jessica couldn't help but say, "Zachary, don't—"
I cut her off and said calmly, "It suits you well. Keep it, then. I never wore it, anyway."
I could still smell the faint mix of sweat and blood on the outfit. Just thinking about it made my stomach turn.
Under their astonished gazes, I returned to my room and locked the door.
Later, I pulled out my document folder, which contained my acceptance letter from Humridge College. I'd always loved the South, and this was for a finance program I was truly passionate about.
In my past life, I'd given up my education for Jessica's sake and willingly stayed home to take care of her family. This time, I was fortunate to still have a chance, and I was determined to live for myself.
I flipped through the calendar. In ten more days, I would be able to leave this place. Time was tight, but I had to make every second count.
A sudden knock broke my focus, and I opened the door impatiently.
Jessica stood there, holding a plate of pasta, and asked softly, "Are you hungry? I made you some pasta."
For a moment, I was dazed. In my past life, she was either indifferent or openly hostile toward me. I hadn't seen this kind, tender side of hers in years.
