When His Mask Cracks novel Chapter 1

In the pink bedroom, Andrew Hughes treated Elise Collins with acupuncture. "Shush," he cautioned. "I'm going to start now. Try not to yell, okay? It wouldn't be good if someone heard us right now."

Moments ago, Elise had cried out from stomach pain and fainted. Thankfully, Andrew, with his medical background, reacted quickly. He carried her to the room and began treatment.

"Elise, too much ice cream could affect your reproductive health. Best not to ignore it, or you might have fertility troubles down the line."

After saying that, Andrew proceeded to complete the acupuncture treatment. He inserted the final silver needle at the CV 4 acupuncture point, three inches below her belly button.

As warmth spread through her belly, Elise realized the pain had vanished, as if she had narrowly escaped death.

"You're amazing, Andy. My stomach doesn't hurt anymore."

Elise batted her lashes and gazed at Andrew with admiration. She was unaware some of her clothing had become undone, exposing her body.

Andrew caught sight of it and quickly averted his gaze. "Elise, please adjust your clothes."

Elise giggled and said, "You've been married to my sister for three years, Andy. What's with the shyness? Haven't you consummated the marriage yet?"

Andrew didn't respond. After Elise adjusted her clothing, he said, "Actually, Elise, I'm divorced from Bernice."

"What?" Elise exclaimed as she shot up in bed. With a look of disbelief, she asked, "Are you joking with me, Andy?"

Andrew shook his head. "I'm serious."

He then pulled out a document and handed it to Elise. "Here's the divorce agreement. See for yourself."

Elise skimmed the document, her initial shock morphing into anger.

Andrew couldn't have possibly initiated the divorce with her sister, Bernice Collins; he loved her. It must have been Bernice who wanted out.

Elise knew how well Andrew treated Bernice.

Following their marriage, Andrew effortlessly assumed household responsibilities, never once complaining. This commitment to Bernice's happiness was evident when he waited outside her office in a heavy downpour, holding an umbrella for two hours until she completed her work.

When Bernice came down with a fever, Andrew tended to her with care, serving chicken soup and staying by her bedside throughout the night.

Andrew's mornings would begin with a daily pilgrimage—a one-hour journey to Nonna's Nook, solely to procure Bernice her favorite ravioli. He didn't just love Bernice; he cherished her, spoiling her like a princess.

His unwavering support enabled Bernice to focus on her career. Within five years, Bernice was on the brink of becoming the president of a company poised for public listing.

Sometimes, Elise envied Bernice for getting a great husband like him. Little did Elise know, that as soon as Bernice tasted success, she turned her back on Andrew and initiated a divorce.

Infuriated, Elise reached for her phone. "Andy, let me ask Bernice what's going on—"

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