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

"How dare you bring up the past? I made it clear I never wanted to see you again."


My words came out harsher than intended, my voice quivering with years of pent-up emotions. The moment Ray appeared, I felt the familiar surge of anger rising within me.


I recalled how he always valued his reputation. A man who prided himself on never losing face in public. If I had spoken to him like this three years ago, in front of others, I knew he would have exploded with rage. The kind of fury that could turn physical if provoked. But not today. Not this time.


Instead of the expected outburst, his lips curved into a smile—genuinely amused, yet tinged with sadness. He moved closer, his gaze locked on mine, and before I could react, his hand was on my cheek.


His touch sent an involuntary shudder through me, not from affection, but as a stark reminder of who he had been—and what he still believed I meant to him.


Chapter 8