Chapter 447 I Loved Only You, Rachel (1/2)

Flora stared at Hiram who was about to leave. She knew that he treasured their friendship too much to ever say anything to embarrass her.

Hiram told Flora that if she would just stop thinking about crazy things like sharing a husband with Rachel, they could go back to being friends.

But if she couldn't…

”Hiram!” Suddenly, Flora shouted at Hiram, who had been moving to open the door and leave.

Hiram stopped, but didn't turn around.

”I... I'm sorry. I'm too impulsive, always have been. I hope you can forgive me,” Flora rubbed her hands anxiously as she pleaded.

Hiram didn't say a word. He opened the door and walked out.

The room he walked into was empty.

Outside the restaurant, on the now dark street, a crisp evening breeze played across Rachel's face. It always managed to surprise her how cold it could get at night.

Rachel wrapped her coat tighter around her as she walked along the street, lowering her head against the cold.

Not far behind, Chad was following Rachel. He shook his head when he saw Hiram. ”Mr. Rong… Since she went into the restaurant, Rachel hasn't said a single word.”

Chad could see why. He doubted anyone would know how to react if something like this had happened to them.

Rachel came out of the restaurant, lowered her head and kept walking briskly away.

Hearing footsteps behind her, she quickened her pace. Suddenly, she was pulled a warm, strong embrace. It was Hiram. ”Rachel, I know you're upset. But it's cold outside. Please just get into the car first, we can figure everything out from there.”

Hiram pulled Rachel close. He reached down to take her hands, and was alarmed to find them almost blue with cold. He unzipped his jacket and pulled her into it, enveloping her in his warmth, protecting her from the cold.

”Hiram, I know how... how...incredible you are. You're strong, and kind, and just. So when I look at myself in comparison, I don't see anything special. Even as the mother of your children, I feel replaceable. I know there are women out there that want you, and would do anything to be with you. Women like Flora.”

Rachel closed her eyes sadly after she had spoken. Last time, it was Lydia. And now Flora. Who would be next? Who would be the next person, even after all their years of marriage, to lay claim on her husband?

Hiram leaned back and looked at Rachel. ”Who told you that? How could you possibly believe that you're not special? You're my wife, my partner. We've raised children together! No one could replace you!”

Hiram placed his finger under Rachel's chin, and lifted her face to meet his gaze and murmured gently.

”Rachel, you have no idea how much I love you. I don't care how other women feel, nor can I control what they do. The only thing I know is that I love you and only you, Rachel.”