That evening, Princeton returned home earlier than usual, just after dinner.

"Tiana, I was just out celebrating Aunt Morgan's birthday. You know the impact she's had on my life," he explained, trying to brush off any suggestions about his relationship with Zuri.

Yet, if Zuri Morgan wasn't important to him, why couldn't he meet my eyes at that moment? I suppressed the sadness swelling within me and calmly helped him hang up his coat. "It's important to celebrate birthdays with those who've been there for us," I replied.

Seeing that I wasn't upset, he seemed relieved. He was always so reserved, rarely showing his emotions. Even when he smiled, it was just a faint gesture. I used to believe I'd reached his heart, that I was different from everyone else. But once Zuri returned, I realized how naive that belief had been.

"Princeton," I said suddenly, turning to look at him.

He glanced over with a puzzled expression.

"Do you remember the vows we exchanged at our wedding?"

We had promised each other a lifetime of loyalty, honesty, and understanding. His eyes flickered as if recalling something distant. "Why bring this up out of the blue?" he asked.

"No real reason. It just came to mind."

A piercing ache coursed through my head, but I tried to seem unaffected.

"Tiana, don't let your imagination get the better of you," he murmured, pulling me into a gentle embrace. "I remember everything."

I knew he wouldn't betray me, yet he would never be completely mine either. There would always be a part of him reserved for Zuri Morgan.

I suddenly wondered, after I'm gone, if Princeton looks back on today, what will he feel? Remorse? Or nothing at all?

When I found out about the brain tumor, I couldn't help but wonder what would happen to Princeton if I died. Back then, I hoped he would remarry someone who loved him just as much as I did. Even if it were Zuri Morgan, I thought I could accept it. But now, I've changed my mind.

Zuri had added me on WhatsApp before coming back to the country, her words laced with thinly veiled threats. I kept asking myself why. Why could others find happiness, but not me? Why did Zuri manage to take everything I ever wanted—my childhood, my mother, my husband—leaving me with nothing? Well, not entirely nothing. I had Skyla, but now she's gone too.

So I started journaling, documenting the mundanity of each day alongside my rapidly declining health. The illness worsened quickly. Insomnia became my constant companion, and the piercing headaches felt like thousands of needles stabbing me. I had no idea how much longer I could endure.

I still cooked for Princeton every day, listened as he talked about work—how busy he was with projects and the conflicts among colleagues. Sometimes, when he said something amusing, I'd chuckle. Just like old times, as if nothing had changed. But I knew everything had changed. Princeton didn’t notice that I hadn't taken a bite. I was in too much pain to eat. Even a single mouthful made me nauseous, my hands starting to tremble. I struggled to appear normal, calmly making my way to the bathroom.

I wanted to reach for the painkillers, but instead, I collapsed to the floor, unconscious. I don’t know how long I was out before I forced myself to stand. When I finally emerged, Princeton was ready to leave.

“Adrian, once I'm done with work, let's take a vacation to the countryside," he said.

I smiled and agreed. Going on a holiday with Princeton was my wish; there’s a legend there about stones that bless couples with lifelong love. I had casually mentioned the beauty of the countryside once, saying it was perfect for a getaway, but he was always too busy. Work always came first, leaving no time for vacations. Now, he brought it up.

As he was leaving, he added, “There’s a dinner party tomorrow. Are you free?”

I paused, my hands still holding the dishes, and thought of how frail I looked. I declined, “I’m not available.”

Princeton didn’t press further and hurried out. As the door clicked shut, I recalled Zuri's morning update on Facebook—she was picking out a suit, and Princeton's silhouette was visible in the mirror. Zuri, freshly back from abroad, wouldn’t miss any chance to expand her network, and Princeton was eagerly assisting her. It was clear he had already promised to take her, yet he still pretended to consider me by asking. He must have been certain I would refuse.

Princeton probably never imagined I would show up at this gala.

The music flowed smoothly, and the venue was filled with the elite, all dressed in elegant Victorian-style gowns and tuxedos, engaged in lively conversations. There I was, feeling like an outsider, completely out of my element amidst the gathering's opulence.

Princeton was easy to spot. After trailing behind him for what felt like ages, I could recognize him instantly. He wore a sharp black tuxedo, with Zuri on his arm, her hair cascading like silk, stealing the spotlight.

I stood quietly, watching them laugh and talk as if they were the couple truly meant for each other. Even though I had expected this, the pain in my chest felt like it was being carved by a knife.

It was as if my heart was filled with icy spikes, numbingly cruel.

I did nothing but watch them, arm in arm, effortlessly greeting every guest. It wasn't until someone gestured toward my direction while speaking to Princeton that he turned to look at me.

I wore a Victorian-style evening gown that hung loosely on me, having grown too thin for it. My complexion was pale, and my cheekbones more pronounced—far too plain compared to Zuri, not fitting for such a gathering.

The moment he saw me, Princeton's expression shifted dramatically. He let go of Zuri's arm and started walking toward me. Perhaps he wanted to explain, to assure me there was no misunderstanding. Or maybe he intended to ask me to leave for Zuri's sake.

It didn't matter anymore.

I gave him a soft smile, then turned and walked away. The last flicker of warmth within me was completely extinguished...