Chapter 2
Just days before, he said to me, “Once you’ve met Ravena, we’ll get our families together to talk about the wedding.“]
If he truly wanted to marry me, why would he do this to me?]
So, was it all just talk?]
Did all those “I love you” he whispered countless times over our four
years together mean absolutely nothing?
I suddenly remembered something one of Evan’s friends had blurted out drunk at a party“If Evan wasn’t hung up on those step–sibling technicalities with Ravena, you wouldn’t be with him at all“]
My heart felt like it was being crushed by an invisible hand. I could barely breathe.]
I don’t remember how I left the hotel. Only felt that the moment I stepped into public view, everyone’s eyes were on me–scrutinizing, Keithing.[]
Overwhelming shame and fear wrapped around me. With trembling hands, I called my parents, who were abroad working on a research.
Because of their specialized work, my parents spent three years at a International research institutions overseas, completely unreachable during those periods.
Today happened to be the day their project ended.[]
When the call connected, my parents‘ concerned voices broke the dam I’d been desperately holding back.
After crying my heart out, I wiped away my tears.[]
“Mom, Dad, I’ve decided to join your research program. I want to do something meaningful with my life.“[]
I’d already given up on joining my parents‘ work because Evan didn’t want me going too far from him. Back then, I figured if things between us were solid enough, maybe staying and building a life with him wouldn’t be the worst thing.
But I was wrong. He didn’t love me. Someone who actually gives a damn about you wouldn’t ruin your name and turn you into a walking scandal! [
I was such a fool. Lucky for me, I still had a way out.
I returned to our apartment in a daze. The place was cold and empty–Evan clearly hadn’t been home.]
The smart home system detected the strong light from outside and automatically drew the curtains.
The room dimmed, and I collapsed onto the carpet, exhausted.]
I wanted to cry but couldn’t squeeze out a single tear.A sharp ringtone broke the silence. It was Evan.[]
“Where are you?“]
I opened my mouth, my throat painfully dry.[]
“Home,”
“Ravena’s throwing a party and insists I bring you. Can you come now? Get ready, I’ll pick you up later.“[]
Before I could refuse, he hung up.
He arrived quickly, and even seeing that I hadn’t changed clothes, he only sighed lightly.[]
“I saw the photos online. Don’t overthink it. I believe in you, okay?“]
He pulled out a curve–hugging dress from the closet.]
“Come on, throw this on. We shouldn’t keep them waiting.”
As he took off my coat, I suddenly grabbed his hand.
Chapter 2
“What exactly do you believe about me?“]
I remembered their conversation at the hotel.]
(0)
“Evan, how do you plan to play this game with Thalia?“]
Evan remained silent, but his phone suddenly played Ravena’s voice“Obviously, we’ll make everyone–including her–question whether she’s self–respect. As for my brother.. he’ll be the one she clings to when she’s at her lowest. This way, their relationship stays intact, and I can get my revenge. What do you think, brother?”
A
