ManyWriters

During my birthday celebration, my partner unexpectedly revealed his impending nuptials to another woman, shocking everyone at the company gathering. I maintained my composure, refraining from tears or outbursts. Instead, I discreetly sought him out, longing for answers. However, what I accidentally discovered was far more distressing than I could have anticipated.
I caught snippets of his conversation with a companion in the corridor.
"Don't you think Lenore will be devastated by this news?" the friend inquired with concern.
Daniel exhaled, responding pragmatically, "What other options do I have? If I don't wed Grace, her relatives will compel her to marry an unfamiliar man. I can't allow that to happen."
The friend paused before continuing, "But what about Lenore... you've been together for so long. Doesn't that hold any significance?"
Daniel's soft laugh, once a source of comfort, now felt like a harsh rebuke. "Lenore has been by my side for eight years. It's common knowledge. What alternative does she have but to wait for me?"
Every statement felt like a painful blow to my heart. Eight years of devotion, endurance, and steadfast backing—and this was his perception of me? As someone without any other prospects?
Subsequently, my relatives arranged an introduction with a potential suitor they deemed more appropriate. A gentleman from the prominent Cortez Family. The day I was set to marry this stranger coincided with Daniel's wedding to Grace.
As Daniel's wedding day drew near, he couldn't shake off a feeling of disquiet. Something seemed amiss. He instructed his groomsmen to remain vigilant, concerned that I might disrupt the ceremony.
One of them hesitated before revealing, "Haven't you heard? Lenore is also getting married today."

The Betrayed Bride's Revenge Wedding

I was walking along a deserted, quiet street when suddenly a gang of troublemakers surrounded me, demanding my money. Frightened, I emptied my pockets, but they weren't satisfied. They dragged me into a dark alley, and I cried out in fear.


Unexpectedly, a young man appeared and courageously fought off the attackers, rescuing me. Grateful, I hurried to a nearby shop to buy some antiseptic. With trembling hands, I tended to his injuries, cleaning the cuts on his arms and hands as a way of showing my appreciation.


Then Daniel showed up, calling my name and snapping me out of my daze. Startled, I turned and ran into his arms, completely forgetting to ask the name of my savior. The incident had been pushed to the back of my mind, but as Frederick observed me, he seemed to understand what I was thinking. A slight smile played on his lips.


"You've recalled it now, haven't you?" he inquired, his tone calm but knowing.


Chapter 14