I met Tom at a college party.
It was one of those lively nights on campus where everyone seemed to be having the time of their lives. Tom was a senior, and I’ll never forget his warm smile when he approached me. “Hey, I’m Tom. What’s your name?” he asked. “Jenny,” I replied, feeling a bit shy. From that moment, we just clicked. He was outgoing and confident, always the life of the party. I was quieter and more reserved, but we balanced each other perfectly. Tom had big dreams of corporate success, while I wanted to be a writer. We spent our days studying and our evenings talking about our future. “I can see you being a famous writer one day, Jenny,” Tom would say, and I’d blush, feeling hopeful. We became inseparable, and college felt like a dream with him by my side. Those early days were filled with love and promise, setting the stage for everything that came next. After college, Tom and I got married and started our careers. We built a wonderful life together. Tom climbed the corporate ladder quickly, and I was thrilled when my first novel got published. Life seemed perfect. One sunny Tuesday afternoon, I was in the kitchen when I saw a well-dressed courier guy arriving. I watched from the window as Tom signed for a package, looking both surprised and delighted. I walked over to him, wiping my hands on a dish towel. “What’s that?” I asked as he placed the box on the kitchen table. Tom grinned at me. “I have no idea, but let’s find out.” We opened the box together and inside was a stunning designer watch nestled in velvet. It gleamed under the kitchen lights, and I couldn’t help but gasp. “Who sent this?” I asked, turning the watch over in my hands, admiring its craftsmanship. “Just a business associate,” Tom replied casually, though I noticed a flicker of something in his eyes. “We closed a big deal, and he sent this as a thank you.” I nodded, trying to accept his expla As days passed, more expensive gifts started arriving for Tom. Jewelry, gadgets, and even a set of golf clubs. Each time, Tom would assure me it was just another thank you from a business associate or a client. But something about it felt off. “Tom, don’t you think these gifts are a bit much?” I asked one evening as we were having dinner. nation. It seemed a bit extravagant for a business gift, but Tom’s company had been doing well lately. Maybe this was just a sign of his success.