ManyWriters

For seven years, I had been secretly dating my brother's closest friend, and we were making plans to tie the knot.
I tracked his location and arrived at his gathering, but as I approached the private room's entrance, I caught snippets of their discussion.
"Ethan Shaw, your true love has returned. What's your plan for that temporary little sister?"
He remained silent.
The mood grew uncomfortable, and another friend chuckled, "Ethan's boldness is remarkable. He had the nerve to pursue Adam's sister. Now that he's done with her, Amanda's back..."
"She left so abruptly back then, she deserves to have a replacement to annoy her!"
The following day, Ethan brought me to Amanda's welcome party, showering me with displays of affection.
However, when Amanda ran off in tears, he shoved me aside and hastily chased after her.
I went home covered in spilled soup and burns, and entered the study—a room he had always forbidden me from accessing.
Their photograph together was prominently displayed on the desk.
My heart shattered, and I phoned my brother overseas.
"Brother, I've decided to accept the arranged marriage. I agree!"

Betrayed Hearts, From Secret Love to Arranged Fate

"For what reason?" I couldn't resist inquiring.


He turned to face me. "According to my mother, retail therapy helps women feel better when they're distressed."


My sibling suddenly chimed in. "I'm feeling down too. Let's go shopping together!"


William effortlessly pushed him aside and whisked me away.


En route, I attempted to clarify the situation to him, but he simply stated, "The past is behind us. I don't want you to reopen old wounds. Believe me—none of that matters to me."


"More importantly, I'm intrigued by your description of me as 'noble.' I appreciate it. Say it again!"


I couldn't suppress a chuckle at his playful tone.


By the time we returned, our purchases had filled not just the trunk but also the entire rear seat.


My brother looked on with envy, cradling our Persian cat with an exaggerated pout. Any lingering irritation from Ethan's visit quickly dissipated into laughter.


Chapter 12