ManyWriters

I spent a significant part of my life in an unhappy marriage with Caspian.
In our final moments, we exchanged harsh words, vowing never to encounter each other in another lifetime.
He blamed me for tying him down with our marriage and children, claiming it cost him his dream of becoming a singer in New York.
I resented him for neglecting his ailing parents and our kids, leaving me to shoulder the burden while he enjoyed life outside.
In our shared resentment, we were given a second chance.
When our eyes met in a crowd, we turned away without a second thought.
This time, I hope we don't look back with regret.

Broken Promises Will Not Be Fulfilled

I thought they'd eventually understand, but they grew up, married, and wanted to live with Caspian, treating me coldly.


"Mom, you controlled us too much. We're done with lectures."


"Dad's dreams were crushed by you. We're taking him to New York to chase them again."


"Grandpa and Grandma were right; you want everyone to live by your rules. You're selfish!"


I never expected such words from my children.


Devastated, I returned home to find Caspian packing, gloating about leaving me for a better life.


After twenty years of managing the household, I was left with accusations of selfishness and control.


Why could Caspian be so carefree? Ignoring family responsibilities yet becoming the hero to our kids?


I shoved him, and he, stunned, grabbed a vase and threw it at me.


"How dare you! I'll beat you senseless!"


Our deaths were retribution for our mutual violence.


As we collapsed, I prayed never to meet Caspian again in another life.


The day I was reborn was the day I changed my major.


Seeing my parents still with me, I resolved not to get involved with Caspian again.


After finals, parties followed one after another. After one gathering, I saw Caspian laughing with some friends nearby.


"I heard Caspian's dropping out to become a singer in New York!"


"Wow, living the dream! We should get his autograph now before he becomes a star!"


"Celeste, weren't you and Caspian childhood friends? Did you know about his plan?"


A friend nudged me, and I glanced through the crowd, meeting Caspian's eyes.


In that moment, I knew Caspian had been reborn too.


I turned away without hesitation. If he wants to go to New York, let him. What does his life have to do with me?


As Caspian's departure day neared, I told my parents I missed Grandma and wanted to visit her to see the new ducklings.


They doted on me and quickly packed for the trip.


Just as we were leaving, Aunt Vera opened her door and paused.


Dad nodded cheerfully. "Our daughter wants to visit her grandma. We'll be gone a few days."


I pretended to be casual, but inside, I was furious, clenching my fists to hide my emotions.


In my past life, I naively believed Aunt Vera cared for me. Later, I realized she had selfish motives from the start.


She coveted our house, pushing for my marriage with Caspian after my parents' death.


Grieving and vulnerable, I let Aunt Vera's kindness lower my guard.


Liking Caspian, I agreed to the marriage.


Little did I know, it was a calculated move on their part.


I took a deep breath, hiding my slight tremors of anger, and talked to my parents about the new pony at Grandma's.


He must have realized I had been reborn too, forcing him to hasten his escape plan.


Chapter 2