ManyWriters

For eight years, I maintained a clandestine romance with my closest friend's sibling.
In the open, Ethan behaved as if I were merely his professional assistant; behind closed doors, he lavished me with affection, murmuring tender declarations of love during our countless intimate evenings.
I unexpectedly stumbled upon a one-of-a-kind engagement ring he had bought. This particular ring could only be customized once in a person's lifetime.
Elated, I trailed him to an elaborately prepared location, only to witness Ethan down on one knee before a woman who looked remarkably similar to me.
His face was streaked with tears as he pledged that she would be his sole life partner.
Following his successful proposal, several of Ethan's companions congratulated him while jokingly remarking, "At last, your genuine 'sweetheart' has come back. So, when do you intend to dismiss that substitute songbird at your place?" one of them quipped.
Ethan exhaled a cloud of smoke, his expression inscrutable and dark. "That unfortunate girl is madly in love with me. She can't survive without my presence. We'll address that matter gradually."
I pressed my hand firmly against my mouth to suppress my weeping and turned to send a message home. [Mom, I'm ready to proceed with the arranged marriage.]
By chance, the day Ethan held his nuptials happened to coincide with the auspicious date I selected for my own marriage registration.
Upon seeing the photograph I shared announcing my matrimony, his complexion instantly drained of color.

From Hidden Love to Heartbreak and Revenge

I gazed up at him, a sardonic grin playing on my face. "Isn't it ironic that you're the one about to tie the knot with someone else?"


Ethan's forehead creased. "Come on, you know this is all for business purposes."


After a moment, his voice grew gentler, trying to persuade me. "Listen, hon, you've always been so understanding, haven't you? Once the reception's over, go gather your belongings and I'll escort you to the new flat. You see, Catherine's my official fiancée now. It wouldn't be proper for you to remain at the house anymore."


Because I was so accommodating, I had discreetly maintained a relationship with Ethan for eight years, hidden from everyone. Now, was he intending to relegate me to the role of a perpetually concealed mistress?


Just as I was about to respond that it wasn't necessary, Catherine's sobs suddenly echoed from the reception hall, and Ethan instantly released me and hurried over.


5#05