ManyWriters

The moment I discovered my pregnancy, I was overcome with joy and anticipation, eagerly planning how to reveal the news to Ray. I envisioned an intimate dinner, with candlelight and the sonogram tucked away for him to find. However, my plans were shattered before I could even begin.
Arriving home unexpectedly, I overheard voices coming from Ray's office. I hesitated by the entrance, my pulse quickening. While it wasn't uncommon for Ray to entertain guests, something in his tone made me linger silently, eavesdropping.
"You've maintained that young woman as your mistress for half a decade. Don't you intend to legitimize her position?" one of his companions jested, his words laced with sarcasm.
Ray let out a chuckle, the sound piercing me like shards of broken glass. "If Susan were to find out, she'd surely leave me. I can't afford that risk."
Their amusement erupted, filling the space like a cruel chorus. One voice stood out, oozing with admiration. "You're quite the cunning one, aren't you? Even your infidelity is meticulously orchestrated."
Each word felt like a stab, each more painful than the last. With trembling hands, I pushed the door open, stepping into their circle of casual camaraderie. Ray glanced up, his smile unwavering, as if nothing had transpired. He slipped a ring onto my finger with practiced ease.
"The wedding is scheduled for next month," he declared, his voice brimming with rehearsed enthusiasm. "I have to work late tonight, so go enjoy trying on wedding gowns. I'll see you later."
His touch lingered just long enough to make me nauseous. I knew the real reason for his absence. It wasn't work—it was Christine Brooks, the artist under his contract. He had reserved a romantic suite for them that night, another in a series of betrayals.
I suppressed the rising bile and forced a smile, playing the role of the unsuspecting fiancée. But inside, my heart was shattering into pieces I feared I could never reassemble.

Betrayed Before the Vows, A Bride's Heartbreak

Ray's scowl intensified as he gazed at me, but it quickly vanished. In an instant, he released me and strode towards Christine.


With a fluid movement, he embraced her and planted a gentle kiss on her brow. Christine clung to him, her tear-stained face transforming into a smug, triumphant grin as she nestled against his chest.


"Christine, take it easy," Ray whispered soothingly, his fingers combing through her hair. "I know you're anxious, but try to relax, for the baby's sake."


Christine sniffled theatrically, lifting her head to meet his eyes. "Then swear to me," she pleaded, her voice quavering, "promise that for the rest of your days, you'll care only for me. Regardless of who your legal wife is, no matter how many sons she bears you, the Palmers' legacy will belong exclusively to me and our child."


Chapter 6