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

Since returning to Brightvale, my mother had been showering me with gifts and treats. She'd constantly order clothes and accessories she thought would suit me, having them delivered to our home.


A decade ago, following her split from my father, she relocated to Brightvale to launch her own venture. The pain of not having me by her side remained a constant ache in her heart.


For years, she'd been urging me to join her in Brightvale. Now that I was here, she was eager to lavish me with everything she could, hoping to make amends for lost time.


"Mom, the past wasn't entirely your fault. I wasted many years on someone undeserving. You've already done more than enough for me," I assured her.


My mother's face was etched with worry. "I always thought that Clark boy would protect you, like before. I never imagined he'd turn out to be such a disappointment! Had I known his true nature, I would have convinced you to return much sooner!"


8#08