The CEO's Delicate Wife

Erica's eyes fluttered open, the unfamiliar room covered in dim light around her. Her gaze shifted to the ceiling, and a familiar scent, soft and floral, teased her senses. Lavender. Julian's scent. But that couldn't be possible-Julian was dead. That's what she remembered, at least.

A wave of memories surged as she pushed herself upright on the bed. Blood trickled down her thighs as she lost their child, the searing pain of acid eating her skin away, the maniacal laughter of her sister echoing in her mind. The past washed over her, drowning her in images she'd rather forget.

The sound of a door creaking open snapped her back to the present. Her breath caught as a figure emerged from the steam-filled bathroom, droplets of water tracing paths down his skin. Julian stood before her, a towel slung low around his waist, wisps of warm mist curling around him. Erica's heart pounded in her chest-she couldn't believe what she saw.

"Are you done staring?" Julian's voice was calm, almost teasing, as he met her wide-eyed gaze. He had always looked at her like this, with a tenderness she could never fully comprehend. But Erica had never returned that affection. She'd met his love with coldness, and resentment. His grandfather had paid her parents to marry her off, and from that moment, she had despised Julian. Yet, here he was, alive when he should have been dead.

Tears sprang to Erica's eyes, her emotions an insane tangle of guilt and relief. She threw herself into his arms, sobs wracking her body as the memories of all the ways she had wronged him overwhelmed her. She had betrayed him, leaked the company's secrets, and fallen for a trap that had cost his best friend's life. She had hurt him in ways she could never atone for, yet Julian had never abandoned her.

Julian tensed as she collided with him, his body stiff with surprise. Her skin felt like ice against his, her tears falling into his chest.

"I'm sorry, I'm so, so sorry..." Erica's voice broke, each word dragging the weight of her sins with it. Julian stiffened, his mind racing-what could she be apologizing for? He couldn't remember anything that would warrant such a reaction.

The shrill ring of a phone shattered the moment, pulling them apart. Julian turned to answer the call, and Erica watched him, her mind whirring as her situation sank in. This wasn't a dream. She had been reborn, sent back two years before her death.

She moved her legs shaky and caught sight of herself in a mirror. Her reflection stared back, young and unmarked by the horrors she had endured. Long brown hair fell in soft waves, framing a face that was smooth and beautiful, though now streaked with tears. She touched her cheeks, barely recognizing the woman she once was.

Julian hung up the phone, his gaze settling on Erica as he approached the dressing room. She was still crying.

"What's wrong? Who hurt you?" His voice was concerned, his brows drawing together as he studied her. He had always hated to see her cry. She looked up at him, struggling to find the words to explain, to make him understand the impossible truth.

But the words wouldn't come. Instead, she forced a smile, desperate to hide her turmoil.

"I just missed you," she whispered, her voice trembling.

Julian's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You missed me?" He couldn't hide the disbelief in his voice. Erica had always kept her distance, recoiling from his touch and presence. But as much as he doubted her words, he couldn't stop the warmth that blossomed in his chest.

"How could I have been so foolish?" Erica thought, her heart aching. She had been blind to the treasure she had in Julian. He had loved her, protected her, and she had repaid him with betrayal. But not this time. This time, she would cherish him, protect him as fiercely as he had once protected her.

"Yes," she said softly, meeting his eyes. "It feels like ages since I last saw you." The sincerity in her voice surprised even her, and she saw a flicker of something in Julian's eyes-hope, perhaps?

"Hmmm..." Julian hummed, his expression thoughtful as he turned away to dress. Erica's eyes followed him, drinking in the sight of him-his broad back, the ripple of muscles under his skin, the sharp lines of his jaw. How had she ever been so blind to his beauty and worth?

"My love," Julian's voice broke through her thoughts, a teasing note in his tone. "As much as I enjoy having your eyes on me, I have business to attend to." He adjusted the cuffs of his sleeves, his movements precise and practiced.

"Do you have to go?" Erica's voice was tinged with sadness. She wasn't ready to let him out of her sight. But she knew she needed time, time to think, to plan. She needed to make things right.

Julian paused, the softness in her voice giving him pause. He bent down, kissing her forehead, his lips lingering against her skin. "I'll be back before you know it," he promised. "You can call me anytime."

Erica nodded, unable to trust her voice. She watched as he turned away, her heart heavy with the knowledge that she had failed him.

A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Julian's voice was sharp as he said, "Come in." A maid stepped into the room, her expression neutral.

"Madam, your sister is waiting downstairs. She says there's something urgent she needs to talk to you about."

The mention of her sister's name made Erica's blood run cold. Hatred flared in her eyes, starkly contrasting the affection she had just shown Julian. He noticed the shift, his eyes narrowing in confusion. Erica and Ophelia had always been close-or so he thought.

"Let her know I'll be there soon," Erica said, calming her voice. She needed to keep her emotions in check until she faced Ophelia.

Julian kissed her forehead, his lips brushing against her skin. "You should freshen up, my love," he murmured, before leaving. "If you need anything, I'm just a call away."

As the door closed behind him, Erica exhaled slowly. She remembered the lengths Ophelia had gone to in her jealousy and how she had tried to tear Julian away from her. Julian's death had been Ophelia's doing, and it had been Ophelia who had killed her and her unborn child. But this time, Erica wouldn't be caught off guard.

After washing up, she made her way downstairs, her steps steady, her resolve firm. Ophelia's innocent face greeted her as she entered the living room, a mask of sweetness that hid the venom beneath. The sight of her sister made Erica's stomach churn, the taste of bile rising in her throat.

"Ophelia," Erica greeted her, her voice dripping with sarcasm that went unnoticed by her sister. "To what do I owe this visit?"

The sun streamed through the living room's tall windows, casting a warm glow on the rich mahogany furniture. Ophelia sat gracefully on the velvet couch, her posture relaxed, but her eyes sharp and calculating. She looked up as Erica entered, a smile spreading across her delicate features, masking the malice lurking beneath.

"Erica, darling," Ophelia purred, rising to her feet. "It's been too long. You look... well." Her eyes flickered over Erica, searching for any sign of distress or weakness.

Erica forced herself to smile, though it didn't reach her eyes. "Doesn't it always seem too long, Ophelia?" she replied, her voice carrying an edge that she couldn't quite hide.

Ophelia's smile faltered for the briefest moment before she regained her composure."Oh, come now, sister. There is no need for hostility. I came here to see you because I care."

"Care," Erica thought bitterly. The word tasted sour on her tongue. It was the same word Ophelia had used before-right before she had destroyed everything. But Erica wasn't the same person anymore. She wouldn't fall for Ophelia's lies again.

"Of course," Erica said aloud, her tone smoother, more controlled. "What brings you here so early? Surely you didn't come to exchange pleasantries?"

Ophelia's eyes narrowed ever so slightly wondering where this newfound confidence in Erica came from, but she kept her tone light."I wanted to talk to you about something important. I've heard some troubling things about Julian's business dealings. I thought you might want to know."

Erica's heart skipped a beat, but she kept her expression neutral. "Oh? And what exactly have you heard?". She remembered this day clearly, Ophelia had planned this scheme to sow a seed of distrust in her and Julian's relationship.

Ophelia's eyes gleamed as she leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "There's a rumor that Julian's company is in trouble. Financially, I mean. Some poor investments, a few bad partnerships... It's only a matter of time before it all comes crashing down. I'm worried about you, Erica. About your future."

Erica stared at her sister, her mind racing. She knew better than to trust Ophelia, she would not be manipulated this time. She had to tread carefully, not to show her hand too soon.

"Are you sure about this?" Erica said carefully. "Julian never said anything about this."

Ophelia's smile widened, her teeth flashing in the sunlight. "He would never tell you about such a thing, dear. But I know just the right thing to help you out." Ophelia proceeded to whisper her plan into Erica's ears.

The false sweetness in her voice made Erica's skin crawl. She knew Ophelia didn't offer help-she came to plant seeds of doubt, manipulate, poison. But Erica wouldn't let her succeed.

"Thank you so much," Erica replied, matching her sister's tone. "I appreciate that, Ophelia. Truly."

They exchanged a few more empty words, each carefully chosen, until finally, Ophelia stood to leave.

"Well, I won't keep you any longer," Ophelia said, smoothing her dress with a practiced hand. "Do take care, Erica. And give Julian my best."

"I will," Erica assured, walking her sister to the door.

As Ophelia stepped outside, she turned back, her eyes locking onto Erica's with an intensity that sent a chill down her spine. "Oh, and Erica?" Ophelia's voice was soft, almost a whisper. "Be careful who you trust."

Erica's breath caught in her throat, but she forced herself to nod, her face a mask of calm. "I always am," she replied.

Ophelia gave her one last, lingering look before she turned and walked away, her heels clicking against the stone path. Erica watched her go, her heart pounding in her chest, a storm of emotions raging inside her.

The moment the door closed, Erica sagged against it, her mind spinning. She knew Ophelia was up to something-she always was. She just hoped everything would play out exactly how it did in the past.

She already knew the truth about Julian's company, but she couldn't risk contacting him with her suspicions. Not yet. He would be hurt if he knew she doubted him, and the last thing she wanted was to push him away again. She needed to be smarter this time, and more careful.

But first, she had to calm her nerves. Taking a deep breath, Erica returned to the living room, her thoughts racing. She needed to think, plan, and figure out her next move. She was determined not to let Ophelia get the better of her-not this time.

As she stood in the center of the room, her reflection caught her eye in the large mirror above the fireplace. She stared at herself, her expression unreadable. She looked the same on the outside-young, beautiful, unscarred-but she felt different, older somehow, harder. The woman in the mirror wasn't the same Erica who had let Ophelia manipulate her so easily.

No, this Erica was stronger and wiser. She had been given a second chance and wouldn't waste it.

A sound interrupted her thoughts, and Erica's heart leaped into her throat. She turned, half expecting to see Ophelia again, but it was one of the maids.

"Madam, Mr. Julian is on the phone. He wishes to speak with you."

Erica nodded, her mind snapping back to the present. "Thank you," she said, following the maid to the study. She picked up the phone, her hands trembling slightly as she pressed it to her ear.

"Erica," Julian's voice came through the line, warm and reassuring. "I wanted to check in on you. Are you alright?"

The sound of his voice was like a balm to her frayed nerves. "Yes, I'm fine," she replied, forcing herself to steady. "Just... thinking."

There was a pause, and she could almost see Julian's concerned expression on the other end of the line. "Is everything alright? You seem... different."

Erica hesitated, her heart pounding. She wanted to tell him everything, to pour out all her fears and doubts, but she couldn't-not yet. She needed time to sort through her emotions, to figure out how to protect him without scaring him away.

"I'm just tired," she said, her voice softer. "It's been a long day."

Julian was silent for a moment before he spoke again, his tone gentle. "I understand. I'll be home soon, alright? We can talk then."

Erica smiled, a genuine warmth spreading through her chest. "I'd like that," she said, her voice more confident. "I'll see you soon."

As she hung up the phone, Erica felt renewed determination. She knew exactly what Ophelia was planning, but she was certain of one thing-she wouldn't let her sister ruin her life again. This time, she would protect Julian, protect their future, no matter what it took.

She would have to tread carefully, to play the game just as Ophelia did. But she was no longer the naive girl who had fallen for her sister's schemes. She was stronger now, sharper.

And she wasn't afraid to fight.

Erica stood in the study, her past and present shadows melding in the dim light. The weight of her new life pressed heavily on her, every memory and emotion from her previous life was now sharper and more painful. The afternoon sun had shifted, casting long shadows across the room as she tried to focus on the papers before her. Julian's reassuring voice still echoed in her mind, but Ophelia's ominous presence lingered like a dark cloud over her.

She needed to act, but where to start? Everything she had known, everything she had passed through, felt both obscure and terrifyingly close. The memories were raw and vivid-Julian's lifeless body, her sister's cold, triumphant smile, and the sharp, searing pain of betrayal. But she couldn't afford to be the same victim in this second chance at life. She had to be the one in control.

Determined, Erica made her way to the study, a second office for Julian at home. It had always been his sanctuary, a place of quiet thought and strategic planning. Now, it would become hers as well. She closed the door behind her, sealing herself from the rest of the house, and moved to the large mahogany desk where Julian frequently worked late into the night.

As she sat in his chair, she felt a strange comfort, as if his presence lingered there. It steadied her, grounded her, and she began to go through the papers scattered across the desk. Contracts, financial reports, business correspondence-pieces of the puzzle she needed to understand if she was to protect Julian from whatever Ophelia had in store for them.

But as she skimmed the documents, frustration gnawed at her. The business language was more complex than she expected, and the details weren't adding up. She had been involved in the company's workings but it wasn't as intractable as this; her life had revolved around social obligations, charity events, and the superficial trappings of their world. Julian had always kept her at arm's length from the complexities of his work, not out of secrecy, but out of a misguided attempt to shield her, and she had never thought to pry.

"Not anymore," Erica muttered to herself. She would no longer be passive and stand by as these incidents unfolded around her. If there was one thing she had learned from her previous life, ignorance was dangerous-deadly, even.

She pulled out a financial report dated just a few months back, her eyes scanning the figures. She didn't understand all of it, but there was something off about the numbers, something she couldn't quite place. A feeling of unease settled in her stomach as she flipped through more pages, searching for patterns, for answers.

"Surely, Julian must have noticed this", Erica thought.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock at the door. Erica looked up, momentarily disoriented. "Come in," she called, her voice steadier than she felt.

The door creaked open, and one of the maids stepped inside, her eyes downcast. "Madam, dinner will be served shortly. Mr. Julian is on his way home."

Erica nodded, offering the maid a distracted smile. "Thank you. I'll be down soon."

As the maid left, Erica leaned back in the chair, closing her eyes momentarily. She needed more information and a clearer understanding of the situation. She knew she couldn't do this alone, but she wasn't ready to involve Julian yet. There was someone else she could turn to, someone who might know more about a company's dealings, someone she had avoided in the past out of pride.

Her grandfather.

He had always been a figure of authority, distant and demanding, more interested in molding her into the perfect socialite than nurturing familial ties. But he was also a man deeply entrenched in the business world, with connections and insights that could be invaluable.

The idea of asking for his help made her hair stand on edge. Their relationship had always been strained, fraught with misunderstandings and unspoken resentments. Despite the financial advantages it brought, he had never approved of her marriage to Julian.

But she couldn't let her pride or her fears stop her now. If she were to protect Julian and safeguard the future she had been given a second chance at, she would need every ally she could find-even if that meant turning to the man who had once seemed more like a dictator than a grandfather.

With a deep breath, Erica made her decision. She would visit him the next day, but she would gather her strength tonight. She pushed away the papers and left the study, her steps more assured as she headed downstairs to join Julian for dinner.

The dining room was bathed in the golden light of early evening, and the table was set with gleaming silverware and crystal glasses. Julian was already seated, his expression softening as she entered. He stood to greet her, his presence as comforting as the warm light filling the room.

"There you are," Julian said, a gentle smile spreading across his face as he took her hand. "I wondered if you planned to hide from me all evening."

Erica chuckled, the sound almost foreign to her ears after the day she'd had. "It will never happen again, I promise" she replied, squeezing his hand. The warmth of his touch eased the tension that had built up within her, reminding her of the good in her life, the things worth fighting for.

He pulled out her chair for her, a small but endearing gesture that made her heart flutter. As she sat down, he kissed her temple softly before taking his seat across from her.

The meal began with light conversation, Julian asking about her day and sharing a few amusing anecdotes from his own. His deep, rich voice was a balm to her frayed nerves, grounding her in the present moment. Erica smiled, her worries momentarily pushed aside.

But as the meal progressed, Julian's expression grew more serious. He set down his fork, looking at her intently. "Erica," he began, his tone gentle but firm, "I can't shake the feeling that something's troubling you. You've been... different today. Is everything alright?"

Erica's heart skipped a beat. She knew he'd notice. Even the slightest change in her demeanor never went past him, but she couldn't keep him in the dark forever. She needed to find a way to balance the truth with her need for more time.

"I've just been thinking a lot," she admitted, her voice softer now, almost vulnerable. "About us, about everything that's happened. It's... overwhelming sometimes."

Julian's expression softened, his eyes filled with concern and tenderness, making her chest tighten. "You know you can talk to me, right?" he said, reaching across the table to retake her hand. His thumb brushed over her knuckles in a soothing motion. "Whatever it is, we can face it together."

The sincerity in his voice made Erica's throat tighten. How could she explain the impossible, the fact that she was living a second life, haunted by the specters of their past mistakes?

Instead, she squeezed his hand, offering him a reassuring smile. "I know," she said softly. "I just need a little time to sort through my thoughts. But I promise, we'll talk."

Julian nodded, though his concern didn't entirely fade. "Take all the time you need," he said. "I'm here for you, always."

They finished dinner in relative silence, the atmosphere heavy with unspoken words. Afterward, they retreated to the drawing room, where Julian busied himself with some paperwork, and Erica pretended to read a book, though the words blurred before her eyes.

As the evening wore on, she found herself sneaking glances at Julian, her mind drifting back to the memories of her previous life. How had she been so blind? How had she allowed herself to be consumed by resentment and bitterness, pushing away the one person who had truly cared for her?

But there was no use in dwelling on the past. She had been given a second chance and intended to make the most of it. Whatever Ophelia was planning, whatever dangers lurked in the shadows, Erica would be ready.

When the time was right, she would tell Julian everything. But for now, she would protect him however she could, gathering information, forging alliances, and keeping him out of harm's way.

As the clock chimed the hour, Erica closed her book and stood, moving to where Julian sat. He looked up as she approached, a question in his eyes.

"I'm going to bed," she said, kissing him. "Don't stay up too late."

Julian smiled, brushing a hand through her hair. "I won't. I'll join you soon."

She lingered for a moment, her heart full of emotions she couldn't quite name, before finally turning and heading upstairs. As she prepared for bed, her thoughts continued to race, but there was a clarity in them now, a sense of purpose.

Tomorrow, she would face her grandfather. And from there, she would unravel the truth, no matter how tangled it might be.

As she slipped under the covers, she made a silent vow: she would protect Julian and their future, no matter what it cost her. She had been reborn, and she would not waste this chance.

As she drifted off to sleep, an eerie thought crossed her mind: "I don't know anything about him"