Chapter 1

For six years, Ethan Hayes kept me a secret.

Today marked the eighteenth time he bailed on our wedding shoot.

His excuse?

Another “emergency board meeting.”

I scrubbed off my flawless makeup.

Stepped out of the expensive Vera Wang gown.

As I was halfway out the door, a familiar voice caught my attention.

It was Ethan!

"Bring out your exclusive collection. Only the best for my fiancée."

My heart soared.

Who knew this workaholic could be so romantic?

I yanked the curtain open, his name on my lips.

But the manager’s flattering voice beat me to it:

"Trust me, Mr. Hayes, she looks breathtaking.

Hands down the most stunning bride in the city."

The smile froze on my face.

The manager wasn't talking about me.

He was praising the woman wrapped in Ethan's arms.

Chloe.

The manager's eyes caught mine, then darted away.

He stepped in my path, shifting uncomfortably.

"Ma'am... since your partner couldn’t make it today,

would you like to reschedule?"

I shook my head. "Don't bother."

He looked conflicted.

"Just a reminder that the deposit is non-refundable.

If next week is too soon, we can always push it to next month."

"No need," I replied calmly.

"He died in an accident today. His schedule is permanently cleared."

……

All the color drained from his face.

"O-Oh my god... I am so sorry.

Ma'am, given the circumstances,

I'll call corporate right now and make an exception to refund your—"

I shook my head again.

A pain like a thousand needles pierced my chest.

Our relationship was a secret.

No engagement party. No public announcements.

Not even his closest friends knew I existed.

That’s why I clung so desperately to this shoot.

It was the only proof that our love was real.

Six years.

Eighteen broken promises.

And now, here he was.

Fulfilling my dream with someone else.

Mistaking my silence for grief,

the manager reached out to steady me.

"Ma'am... are you alright?"