His Destructive, Toxic Love

Casper was playing the part of the perfect husband to a T. And a charming one at that. Eliza let out a soft sigh, unsure if starting their relationship like this was the right move or just a step toward a deeper, darker place. Deep down, she genuinely wanted to give them both a fair shot. But insecurity gnawed at her. She couldn't help but wonder how long Casper's efforts to please would last before he got tired of it all. And then what? Would they keep up appearances just to be good parents to their child? In the end, she realized she couldn't quite figure Casper out.

The table was set with steaming hot pasta, and he had gone out of his way to add two perfectly cooked eggs to her plate. His own bowl, however, just had a few egg bits. Was he trying to be noble or what? She thought it was unnecessary; it's not like they couldn't afford more eggs.

"Why didn't you cook more eggs?" she asked.

"I'm not that into eggs, so I just made two for you." He smiled, a soft, gentle curve at the corners of his lips.

Okay, maybe she was overthinking it. The dining area was calm, and they barely spoke while eating. He finished quickly and then just watched her.

Feeling a bit awkward under his gaze, Eliza put down her fork. "Casper, can I ask you something?"

"Of course, ask away," he replied casually.

"What do you think is the most important thing between a husband and wife?"

Casper paused for a moment; he believed that a good marriage needed honesty, tolerance, and mutual understanding. But he wasn't sure that was what Eliza wanted to hear. "What is it?" he asked.

"I'm asking you," she said with a slight frown. "In your view, what's the most important thing in a marriage?"

"Love," he said.

Eliza: ...

To her, such a vague answer felt like he was dodging the question. Disappointment flickered in her eyes, and she lost the drive to continue the conversation. "Let's just eat."

"No," he quickly reached for her arm. "Then tell me, what do you think is the most important thing between a couple?"

"I'm done." She stood up, suddenly

not in the mood to talk about it

anymore. Men and women often see love and marriage differently. She didn't need him to agree with her,

but she didn't want to be brushed off either.

Back in the bedroom, she sat on the bed, deep in thought. Casper came in and sat across from her.

"Did my answer not satisfy you?" he asked gently.

"Casper, if we were to live together again, do you think we'd get along? Would you, for the sake of 'love always hold back your temper and keep trying to please me?"

Eliza's lashes fluttered, but she didn't look up, doubting his patience could last.

"I'm not holding back anything. Isn't a husband supposed to cherish his wife?"

Casper didn't see his actions as mere pandering; his kindness was something he gave willingly. When he gave, he was happy and didn't feel any resentment.

"How long can you keep that up? A year, two years, or..." She lifted her long lashes, her gaze searching and uncertain.

He looked at her, eyes deep and unwavering, "A lifetime."

"A lifetime." Those words hung softly in the air, distant yet full of promise, stirring both desire and doubt.

A flicker of worry crossed her eyes. He gently pulled her into his arms. "Let's work on this together, okay?"

His steady heartbeat, close to her

ear, slowly synced with her own

breath. She had to admit, in this moment, his embrace brought her a warmth she had never felt before.

Her heart trembled, ever so slightly.

"Casper, can you truly love someone?"

"I may not know how yet, but I'm willing to learn. And I firmly believe loving you is something that comes naturally to me. Trust me, okay?"