Chapter 2
After they left, I picked up the pendant on the table.]
It felt cold to the touch, a jagged crack running down the back.
Just like what Richard and I had become–broken long before either of us admitted it.]
Out in the garden, a line of stylists stood holding designer gowns, all custom–made.
Each dress screamed luxury, dripping in embroidery and overpriced lace.
Lola lit up like it was Christmas, arms outstretched as assistants dressed her up.
Every time she twirled in a new gown, she’d turn to Richard with a sugary smile.
“Do I look good in this one?”
And Richard? He played the doting fiancé to perfection, giving her his full attention.
They looked like a scene straight out of a romance ad.]
And I sat there like a statue, eyes locked on the sea of white and crimson tulle, my chest aching like it had been sliced open.[]
“Richard, do you remember helping me try on dresses three years ago?”
My voice was soft, but it cut through the air.]
He froze, a flicker of nostalgia flashing in his eyes.
“Wow…. I can’t believe you still remember that.“[]
I smiled, bittersweet.
How could I forget?
That was the first time I truly loved someone.]]
And the first time I learned what betrayal tasted like.[]
Three years later, the world had moved on.
Only I was stuck in place.[]
Maybe my face gave too much away, because Richard walked
over to me.
- e.
Scarlett, please. Just trust me. Once Lola gets better, we’ll start over.”
“I promised you this was just pretend. When it’s over, you’re still the one I want.“]
I didn’t look at him.
I stared straight at Lola’s latest gown–deep red, dramatic, theatrical.[]
“You two make a great couple.”
His breath caught. He opened his mouth to speak, but Lola beat him to it.]
“Baby, how do I look?”
Her syrupy voice pulled everyone’s attention like a magnet.[]
And in that split second, I saw it.]
That same spark in Richard’s eyes.]
The same one he used to look at me with.]
So it was never just me.
Before he could speak, I said,[]
“Stunning. Miss Lola, you might be the most beautiful bride I’ve ever seen.“[]
Richard’s smile froze. He turned to me, confused and shaken
Wife Or Mistress? The Bharkime Truth About Bo Marria
hapter 2
Three years ago, he said those exact words to me.[]
Now I was giving them back.]
Lola twirled proudly, soaking up the praise.[]
You’re too sweet! This dress was custom–made for me.”
e.“]
Richard had it rushed, said I deserve the very best.”
I glanced at him. He looked away.
The very best.
Now it made sense.
That’s why I had to sign the divorce papers.
Because being his wife used to mean something–used to be “the best.”
I swallowed everything boiling inside me and said calmly.[]
“If there’s nothing else, I’ll go back to my room.“]
Lola’s eyes glimmered with triumph, though her tone pretended concern.[]
“Of course, sis. Richard and I still need to walk through the wedding ceremony.”
I nodded and left, refusing to react to the heat of Richard’s stare behind me.
e.D
You made your choice, Richard.
Don’t you dare look back.[]
Five days until their wedding.
