Chapter 3

"Logan?"

Chloe's voice was cautious. I didn't make a sound.

On the other side of the screen, Chloe sighed, looking annoyed. But her flawless makeup and stunning designer gown told a different story: she was having the time of her life.

My video preview sat in the top right corner. I was sitting in the dark, looking like a ghost that didn't belong in her bright world.

"Logan, listen to me. Tonight is the wrap party for Austin's first television show. Tons of press are here, and I have to show support. The fans and media are watching my every move."

"I literally had to sneak away to the bathroom just to call you!"

I wanted to laugh. She acted like calling me was some grand act of charity.

I was her husband. I was the man who traded his own voice so she could have this glittering career.

I didn't want to hear her lies anymore. I typed on my iPad and held it up to the camera:

*“So, you're not coming home tonight, right?”*

Chloe nodded, looking exasperated. Even though I knew the answer, a sharp pain still pierced my chest.

I let out a bitter, silent smile. Chloe’s brows furrowed instantly.

"What's with that face, Logan? Seriously, do you have to do this every single time? Why can't you just support me for once?"

I felt utterly helpless. I hadn't even said a word. I had only smiled, and yet I was the villain.

A deep, icy chill washed over me.

I typed again on my screen:

*“It’s fine. You don't have to come back. Don't worry about coming back ever again. I'll come find you tomorrow.”*

Chloe lost her temper instantly.

"Why are you coming to find me? I told you I'll come home once this busy season is over! What if the paparazzi spot you? How am I supposed to explain a mute husband to the media? Logan, please, grow up! I don't expect you to be a powerful connection in my career like Austin is, but the least you can do is stop throwing these jealous tantrums!"

I watched her beautiful face twist with anger. Her lovely voice was strained from trying to keep her volume down.

I felt completely hopeless. I gave up.

I hung up the call. Then, I blocked her Snapchat, her number, and every other way she had to contact me. Exhausted, I leaned back in my chair and whispered in my mind:

"System, are you there?"

The System's voice chimed in my head, asking for my request. The pain was gone, replaced by a strange, hollow peace.

"I'm tired," I said in my mind. "End it. Take back what's mine. Let everything go back to the way it was."

Suddenly, I felt a slight vibration in my throat. For the first time in five years, I felt the wonderful sensation of my vocal cords moving. I let out a low, raspy hum.

Tears welled up in my eyes. The System asked one final time:

*“Host Logan, are you sure you want to reverse the trade? Once confirmed, your voice will gradually return to normal, and Chloe will lose hers completely. This exchange is permanent. Do you confirm?”*

"Confirm."

I wiped my tears away. No more hesitation. It was time for everything to return to its rightful place.