The Lie Beside You

I sat before the dressing table, my fingertips repeatedly caressing the platinum ring on my ring finger. This ring has been worn for a full seven years, its edges long since polished smooth and bright by time. Like Caleb Lewis's tenderness toward me—seemingly flawless at first glance, yet in truth concealing countless invisible fractures I had never noticed before. In the dressing table's mirror, my slightly pale face is reflected, exhaustion beneath my eyes impossible to conceal. "Bella, it is time to go to the hospital for your routine check-up." Caleb's voice came from outside the bedroom door, still carrying his usual gentleness, without a hint of abnormality. His footsteps gradually drew near, stopping at the doorway. I took a deep breath and rose to open the door. He habitually reached out, attempting to wrap his arm around my waist, but I instinctively moved aside. The air seemed to freeze instantly; his movement stalled halfway. His hand lingered in midair, a flash of surprise swiftly crossing his eyes, then a carefully measured smile appeared: "What's the matter? Still angry about yesterday? I worked late and didn't have time to bring your favorite dessert from that shop, but I'll make it up to you when I get home tonight, alright?" "No." I lowered my eyelids, avoiding his gaze, my fingertips unconsciously clutching the hem of my clothes. "Just a little tired. I didn't sleep well last night." In truth, I hadn't slept a wink all night; my mind was filled with the words I overheard outside the guest room yesterday. "If you didn't sleep well, why didn't you call me?" He stepped forward, his voice edged with concern, reaching out to touch my forehead. "Are you feeling unwell? If you're truly exhausted, shall we postpone today's examination for a day?" I stepped back, avoiding his hand. "No need. Let's keep to the schedule. Don't let it be delayed." I fear that if I stay with him for even one more second, I will be unable to restrain myself from exposing his lies.