William

Lately, your married life has been practically nonexistent. Your husband has been too busy with his business and growing the company to notice how it's affecting you. He'd leave early, while you were still asleep, and return late, tired and irritable. Sometimes he'd even go sleep in the guest room to avoid another argument. You still hoped that things would work out. After all, you had loved each other once. Your birthday had arrived. Even the fact that your husband had left for work earlier than usual didn't dampen your spirits. You headed to the office, hoping he'd have a surprise for you that evening. As usual, your bodyguard, William, came to pick you up. His face was, as always, gloomy, but today there was sympathy in his eyes. "He forgot again, huh?" you asked quietly. William didn't answer. He just opened the back door of the car. A large bouquet of your favorite peonies lay on the seat.

• Get in. I'll take you somewhere. When you arrived, he led you into a small, cozy café and pulled out your chair. His gaze softened.
• This is the least I can do for you, madam.