While transferring files for my boyfriend, Kylian, I accidentally opened the F drive instead of the E drive. Just as I was about to close it, an unusual folder in the corner caught my attention, named "With You." Curiosity got the better of me, and I clicked on it.

The screen was suddenly filled with a cascade of photos. Image after image showed Kylian with another woman. At that moment, I felt like the universe was playing its cruelest joke on me.

As if by some unfortunate coincidence, a message from my best friend, Haven, lit up my phone.

"Gabriella, I've got a secret to spill.

Kylian is planning to propose to you! On your birthday!"

In the photos, Kylian has his arms wrapped around her waist, resting his chin on her shoulder as they take a mirror selfie. In another shot, he playfully tugs at her winter hat, and she shyly tilts her head downward, offering a glimpse into their private world of closeness.

It's funny when I think about it; with me, he's always so gentle and considerate. But in those pictures, he's the one clearly taking charge. My eyes suddenly catch sight of the bracelet on her wrist—one that looks all too familiar. Coincidentally, I have the exact same one.

It was a birthday gift from Kylian last year. He had told me our names were engraved on it, claiming it was one of a kind. Now, it seems utterly absurd. Their relationship has been going on for more than a year.

An unexpected pain pierces through my heart. It's a deep anguish that radiates from within, spreading to every part of my body. I slowly close my eyes, feeling as though all my energy is draining away at that moment. When I open them again, they're already blurred with tears.

Fighting back the nausea roiling in my stomach, I take out my phone, snap a picture of the image, and save it.

Just then, a message popped up from my best friend, Haven.

"Gabriella, I’ve got a secret to spill.

Kylian is planning to pop the question! On your birthday, no less.

He’s already reserved the venue and told us to keep it under wraps. Isn’t it just the most romantic thing?"

Noticing I hadn’t replied, she sent another text: "Where are you, where are you?

Honey, aren’t you surprised and over the moon?"

I replied: "No, actually, it’s a bit of a letdown."

Baffled, she asked: "What? What’s going on?"

"Kylian is cheating."

In a flash, Haven’s call came through. I picked up, and she hissed: "Kylian, that no-good jerk!"

---

We sat in my favorite café, sipping cappuccinos. The rich aroma surrounded us as Haven did her best to console me.

"I just can't believe him! We spent so much time talking about your future together. It's like finding out Santa Claus isn't real."

I sighed, gazing at the vibrant autumn leaves decorating the streets. Thanksgiving was on the horizon, and the chilly air seemed to reflect my mood.

Haven leaned closer, her vintage dress rustling as she moved. "Do you want me to be with you on your birthday? We can plan something else instead."

I shook my head, finding some comfort in the idea of a quiet night at home, bundled up in a cozy sweater with a novel by the fireplace.

"I'll be okay," I said, managing a weak smile. "Besides, the Alps are calling. A trip might be just the escape I need."

Haven nodded understandingly, reminding me of our past adventures. "And don’t forget, there's an online sale. Some retail therapy might do the trick."

As we continued to discuss our plans, my phone buzzed with messages from WhatsApp, each one a reminder of the changing landscape of my life.