Returning with two boxes in hand, he held up a wooden jewelry box and an ornate gift box, unsure of their contents.

Standing at the closet's entrance, he asked, "There were two boxes on the table. Which one do you want?"

Bettie glanced at the boxes he was holding and paused, suddenly recalling the contents of the gift box on the right. Damn it! How could she have forgotten!

Flushing, Bettie said, "The left one. Please put the right one back..."

“Forget it. Hand it here." Bettie approached Lance, took the gift box from him, and swiftly stashed it in the wardrobe.

Raising an eyebrow, Lance watched her curiously and teased, “What's in there? Something embarrassing?"

Bettie paused, glanced at Lance, and asked seriously, "What do you mean by that?"

"Well, you know the answer," Lance replied, adjusting his glasses.

"This gift box is brand new and beautifully crafted, suggesting it's a gift to you. You've decided to take other gifts to our new villa, yet you chose not to take this. Could it be that..."

"What?" Bettie felt her heart race.

"Is it a gift from another man? Are you worried that I might see it?"

Bettie was at a loss for words. She rolled her eyes at him and nodded, "Yes, exactly. It is indeed a gift from another man. It's a secret between us. How could I let you see it?"

Lance raised his eyebrow. "What does the letter say? Is he ending things with you because you're getting married? If so, he knows his place."

Bettie scoffed at his comment. "You're underestimating my charm! He knew I was getting married, and he was so worried I would leave him that he pleaded with me in the letter!"

While organizing her clothes, she spoke casually. "He said he would be happy to be my secret lover, as long as I visit him twice a month."

Lance pursed his lips together.

Seeing his silence, Bettie raised her eyebrows at him and continued packing her suitcase. She stood by the closet, selecting more clothes.

Suddenly, Lance moved closer from behind. His breath on her ear, he whispered, "So, you meet your secret lover twice a month. I'm your lawful husband. How often do you plan to sleep with me each month?"

The sensation tickled. Bettie instinctively shivered and pulled away.

“What... What did you say?"