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

Time marched on. The world cycled through its seasons. Three years slipped away in the blink of an eye.


Jason had seemingly disappeared from my life entirely. I neither glimpsed nor heard from him—until this very day.


Sebastian and I were at the medical center for a standard pregnancy check-up. As we exited the examination suite, he placed a protective palm on my growing abdomen, prattling on like a concerned elder.


"You must take care of yourself, understand? Proper nutrition, ample rest, and no undue worry."


I grinned, bobbing my head in agreement to each statement, entertained by his earnest concern.


But then destiny decided to play its cruel game once more.


As we passed by the mental health wing, a recognizable silhouette emerged.


I paused momentarily. He had evidently been visiting Paula. His gait was unhurried, his posture slightly stooped, as if burdened by life's trials. When his gaze met mine, the color drained from his face.


21#21