ManyWriters

I made my way back to Illinois discreetly, holding onto my bridal gown—a reminder of the vow Jason Grey and I had exchanged three years prior. My pulse quickened with excitement as I neared the location of our long-awaited meeting. Instead of the loving encounter I had envisioned, I walked into a shocking scene.
There stood Jason, his fingers interlaced with those of another woman. But this wasn't just any woman—she was an exact replica of me. A doppelganger.
They were in the midst of their betrothal ceremony.
The instant her watery gaze met mine, she became still, then burst into tears. Without uttering a word, she darted from the room, stumbling as if fleeing from a specter.
Jason turned to face me, anger evident in his attractive face. "Why must you look like that?" he barked. "You're causing distress to everyone!"
His harsh words cut deep. Before I could reply, the man I once believed in chased after his 'fiancée', abandoning me to embarrassment and confusion.
The gathering was merciless. Pointing fingers, hushed gossip turned to jeering laughter as I became the focus of their amusement. My supposed friends—familiar faces that once greeted me warmly—made no effort to conceal their contempt.
"Did you have to return and spoil everything? Wouldn't it have been better if you'd remained deceased overseas?"
"For all this time, Paula had to bear your likeness as if it were a hex. The moment you reappear, you bring chaos like a tempest."
"Offer an apology and show remorse, or our friendship is over."
Revulsion filled their eyes, but I remained unmoved. I allowed their words to slide off me like water off a duck's back. Without a backward glance, I phoned my mother.
"Mom," I said, my tone unwavering and icy, "I'll say yes to the Moore family's marriage proposal."
The room fell into shocked quiet as I exited, leaving their chatter and criticism behind. These so-called companions weren't deserving of my concern.

My Husband's Shocking Betrayal at the Altar

"Hailey," he eventually spoke, his tone uncharacteristically soft. "I'll compensate for my mistakes. I promise I won't let you down again."


In the subsequent period, Jason frequented the medical center. He brought sustenance—dishes I either couldn't eat due to allergies or simply disliked—and awkwardly attempted to tend to my needs.


Then one afternoon, he inhaled deeply and announced, "Hailey, I believe... we should pause our engagement."


I remained motionless, my face expressionless as he elaborated.


"Throughout our relationship, I've regarded Paula as your sidekick. I've caused her immense pain, and now she's shattered. All she desires is a sanctuary—a bit of tranquility. I must rectify my actions."


He clasped my hand firmly, as though the act would somehow console me.


"But don't fret," he assured me earnestly. "I vowed not to disappoint you. Once Paula is mended, I'll end our marriage and return to you."


I gazed at him, feeling completely detached. Wed her? Mend her? Then divorce her? The ludicrousness was indescribable.


But what did it matter? I nodded half-heartedly, which was all he required. He departed, appearing content—as if everything had fallen into place.


However, Paula persisted. She inundated social platforms with images—wedding announcements, betrothal pictures, and even snapshots of her embracing Jason.


Meanwhile, I silently left the hospital and headed home. My parents were already organizing my nuptials. Couturiers, beauticians—everything was being arranged to ensure I looked flawless on the momentous day.


Time flew by. On my wedding day, as luck would have it, our vehicle collided with another matrimonial procession.


To my astonishment, it was Jason's car.


He exited when he spotted my father, courteous and respectful. "Mr. Johnson! What a coincidence. Is this your daughter's wedding? Allow me to clear the path."


As he turned to leave, his eyes wandered towards the rear seat. For an instant, he stood motionless.


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