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...

Driving back home, tears blurred my vision and streamed down my face.

Haunting images raced through my mind: Skyla's blood-soaked body, my mother's departure, and Zuri Morgan’s triumphant smirk.

I felt like a volcano on the brink of eruption, pressure building inside me. Once home, I flung the birthday gift I had prepared for Princeton onto the floor, watching it shatter into pieces.

Anger surged through me, planting seeds of resentment deep in my heart. The wedding photo on the wall, where I seemed to be the only one smiling, mocked my failures and made me feel utterly foolish.

I grabbed a kitchen knife and thrust it down, the sharp blade slicing between us.

It tore everything apart, mirroring how our relationship had become irreparably shattered. Madness swept over me, and I dragged the knife across my arm with force.

Crimson drops splattered onto the floor, a sharp pain shooting through me, but it still felt insufficient.

As I contemplated cutting deeper, my gaze fell upon Skyla's photograph, his joyful smile beaming back at me.

In that moment, my heart wavered, my hand trembling with indecision over whether to continue or to let go.

In a haze, I imagined Skyla running towards me, arms wide open, sweetly calling for his mom.

Ultimately, I chose to set the knife down.

Skyla was always so perceptive; from the moment he joined our family, he sensed the tension between Princeton and me.

Even at his young age, he tried to mend our relationship, never giving up, even when faced with Princeton's cold demeanor.

Looking at Skyla’s photo, the turmoil within me finally settled.

Self-harm offered no relief, only leaving a scar that would never truly heal.

Before Princeton returned home, I had already organized the room.

When he came back, I carried on as usual—helping him change into his slippers and hanging up his coat. He seemed like he wanted to say something but couldn't find the words. The man who could charm and navigate any business meeting now stood speechless.

Breaking the heavy silence, I spoke first, "I get it. She just got back from overseas and needs to establish her connections. You want to help her."

My voice was calm, as gentle as ever. A look of surprise flashed in his eyes, and when our eyes met, I kept my warm and reassuring smile.

After a long pause, he looked away, but then suddenly pulled me close, kissing me with a passion that left me breathless. So, he could still show such intensity for me. His eyes were misty, and he gazed at me intently, "Tiana, I love you."

I met Princeton's gaze with a soft smile, "I know, and I love you too."

The mingling scent of lilies and men's cologne made me uneasy. This love born out of guilt felt hollow...