He Thought He Could Let Her Go, Until She Left

Ms. Chancellor, are you sure you want to cancel the wedding? This venue took a year to secure. If you back out now, itll be at least another two years before you can book it again. Shouldnt you speak with Mr. Davidson first?

Athena Chancellors pale face betrayed her exhaustion, but her eyes were resolute. She gave a firm nod.

"Theres nothing to discuss. Cancel it."

The sharp pain in her lower abdomen surged as the anesthesia wore off, gripping her body with unrelenting intensity. Each word she spoke felt like a battle, her strength barely holding.

Yet, the moment she regained consciousness, her first action was clear. She reached for her phone and canceled the wedding, her decision unwavering despite the storm raging through her body.

After all, if she hadnt canceled, the thought of two weddings with the same groom would have been nothing short of a farce.

The receptionist on the line hesitated but quickly processed Athena's request, adhering to the golden rule of customer first.

Within a minute, a text message confirming the cancellation appeared on her phone.

Staring at the message, a year of effort crumbled before her eyes. Yet, instead of heartbreak, Athena felt an unexpected sense of liberation, as though a weight she hadnt realized she was carrying had been lifted.

"Please ensure this remains confidential. Dont breathe a word of it to Emmett."

The staff assured her repeatedly, though their curiosity lingered. Just a month ago, on Athenas birthday, Emmett Davidson made headlines by lighting up the skies of Ravenloch with fireworks. This grand display captivated social media.

At the time, everyone marveled at how Emmett and Athena, after five years together, still seemed wrapped in the warmth of love, the perfect couple in everyones eyes. How could things have spiraled so quickly, ending in the cancellation of their wedding just weeks later?

Athena hung up the phone, her fingers already reaching for a ticket, when the door to her hospital room creaked open, cutting through her thoughts.

Emmett had just returned from an international conference, his suit still creased from the long journey. Without a moments hesitation, he rushed to Athena and enveloped her in a tight embrace, his voice full of regret.

"Athena, Im sorry. Im late."

"How are you feeling? Does it still hurt? I was only gone for two days, and now you're in the hospital. What did the doctor say?"

Athena was held so tightly she had no chance to catch her breath. Just as she opened her mouth to respond, a faint, nearly undetectable scent filled the air.

It was the same scent she had once noticed on another woman.

Suddenly, a wave of nausea hit her, settling in her stomach like a stone.

Wasnt it more likely that he had spent that so-called international conference in someone elses bed?

The thought hit Athena like a punch to the gut, and in an instant, she broke free from Emmetts embrace. Gripping the bed railing, she doubled over, dry heaving violently.

Emmett froze, a look of shock crossing his face before he rushed to her side. His beautiful eyes were filled with a mixture of concern and something darker, almost like excitement.

"Athena, could you be pregnant?"

Athena straightened up, carefully distancing herself from him.

"No, my stomachs just been a little off lately."

"Really?"

Emmetts voice dripped with disbelief, and just as he opened his mouth to press further, his phone rang.

The moment he saw the name on the screen, all his questions vanished, replaced by a faint smile that crept across his lips.

But instead of replying to the message, Emmett quickly powered off his phone and, like a clingy puppy, leaned in closer to Athena, completely abandoning his earlier concerns.

"Athena, Ive already sent out all the wedding invitations. Soon, well be married!"

"Lets have a son first, okay? Well raise him right, and when hes grown, Ill retire early and spend every day with you."

Emmett spoke with such enthusiasm, oblivious to Athenas pale face, as if everything were perfectly fine.

Meanwhile, the television broadcasted Aliana Forbess first interview since returning to the country.

Just half a month ago, Aliana had walked away from her thriving career in the Canadian film industry; her decision was firm and resolute as she chose to return home. Upon her arrival, she wasted no time in announcing her plans to marry.

In the interview, Aliana spoke with a sweetness that could melt hearts as she reminisced about her fianc.

"We were each others first love. Time and distance came between us because we were so young and reckless back then. Still, I never imagined hed show up in Canada, holding a bouquet of flowers, just to wish me a happy Valentines Day."

Her voice softened, brimming with emotion. "Maybe hes watching this now, and if he is, I want him to know: no matter the years weve lost or the ones we still have, I love you, and I always will."

Alianas gaze lingered on the camera, her eyes shimmering with affection, as if she could see the man she adored through the lens, closing the gap between them.

The interview ended abruptly, and before Athena could fully process it, Emmett had already grabbed the remote and switched the channel with practiced ease.

"Hmm, its probably staged. People in showbiz love spinning fairy tales," he remarked, rubbing his nose in that familiar way. Tossing the remote onto the couch, he added with a smirk, "Who cares about their love story anyway? Ours is better, childhood sweethearts, a bond like no other, and destined to be together!"

Emmett probably didnt even realize it, but Athena had long noticed his tell, a subtle nose rub he couldnt seem to resist whenever a lie slipped past his lips.

She didnt call him out on it. Instead, she sat in silence, her heart growing colder with each passing second.

A month ago, Emmett went on a business trip. What was his destination? Canada. The coincidence left a bitter taste she couldnt shake.

And Alianas so-called first love, the man she hadnt seen in five years, turned out to be none other than Athenas fianc, Emmett.

Emmett lingered by Athenas side, enthusiastically discussing wedding plans. His words spilled out in an endless stream as if he couldnt contain his excitement. To anyone watching, he seemed completely genuine.

It wasnt until his phone buzzed with a call from work that he finally rose to leave. Leaning down, he pressed a lingering kiss to her cheek and said, "Athena, were going to be so happy."

Athenas lips curved into a faint smile, a practiced gesture shed perfected over the years.

She had once believed those words with all her heart.

For five years, they had shared a life that felt like a dream, traveling across mountains and oceans, weaving unforgettable memories in every corner of the world.

On every anniversary, Emmett had showered her with thoughtful gifts, each one more unique than the last. He had even gone as far as designing a villa for their future, every detail tailored to her desires.

Two years ago, after a devastating car accident left her unconscious, Emmett stayed by Athenas side through every agonizing second. Even when he risked severe blood loss himself, he insisted on donating blood to save her life.

Because he had said that his life belonged to her.

When Athena finally opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was Emmetts swollen, tear-filled gaze, a mixture of relief and exhaustion etched into his face.

From that moment on, Athena had vowed never to let down the man who had given her his heart so completely.

But time had a cruel way of shifting promises, and the Emmett who had once declared his undying love now seemed like a shadow of that man, fading farther from where he once stood.

Watching his figure retreat down the hallway, Athena felt a hollow ache settle in her chest. Shaking off the lingering haze, she pulled out the IV needle with quiet determination and made her way to finalize her discharge papers.

The doctor handed her a prescription and reminded her to avoid intercourse in the near future. She needed to recover her body before thinking about having a child.

Athena nodded absentmindedly, her attention fixed on scrolling through flight options on her phone. Her finger hovered over the purchase button when a breaking news alert lit up her screen.

The headline redirected her to Alianas latest Instagram update, where a new post quickly caught her eye. It featured a photo of Aliana with a man, his face obscured, but his chiseled chest and the faint kiss marks on his neck were unmistakable.

[Heres a little puppy who got so excited seeing my confession on TV that he came running over. Too bad someones camera-shy. Dont worry, though, when our grand wedding arrives, youll all be amazed!]

Pinned beneath the post was a reply from an anonymous account. The image showed Aliana and the same man holding hands, her million-dollar engagement ring gleaming under the light.

The caption read, [Cant wait to marry you.]

Athena felt a sharp ache pierce her chest, but she willed herself to stay composed. Suppressing the storm brewing within, she confirmed the flight details and clicked the purchase button without hesitation.

With that task completed, one final matter of importance remained.

Hailing a cab, Athena made her way to the Davidson family cemetery.

Her parents had once been devoted servants of the Davidson household. Over a decade ago, in a tragic turn of events, they had sacrificed their lives to save Emmett from drowning. Their loyalty had moved Azrael Davidson deeply, leading him to honor them with a place in the family cemetery and ensure that their orphaned daughter was raised with the utmost care.

Athena placed a bouquet of chrysanthemums gently before the tombstone, her trembling fingers brushing the petals as if seeking comfort.

Mom, Dad, you always said Emmett was a good boy, the only one in the Davidson family who would protect me, she murmured, her voice cracking. But why why was it him who hurt me the most?

He said he loved me more than anyone else. Then why did he betray me?

Mom, Dad, I have nothing left now.

The floodgates of her sorrow opened, and Athena broke down, her sobs echoing in the stillness of the cemetery.

Her mind drifted to the days after her parents' death, a time when despair had consumed her. Night after night, she had cried herself to sleep, her small body ravaged by relentless fevers that no one could ease.

Emmett, torn by guilt and anguish, stayed by Athenas bedside every night, his words heavy with remorse.

Im sorry, Athena Its all my fault, he whispered, his voice thick with sorrow.

Athena, please get better. Youre all the family they left behind.

Ill protect you from now on, okay? Youre my family now.

My life belongs to you.

From that moment, Emmett took on the role of her protector, her older brother, and she let herself believe him.

Then, in the warmth of early summer after graduation, he held her hand, making a promise to give her a beautiful future.

At first, Athena believed him completely. She trusted him with all her heart.

But as time passed, something in Emmett began to change.

The first hint of doubt crept into her mind the day she tried on her wedding dress.

In the car, Emmett refused countless phone calls before eventually powering off his phone completely.

Embarrassed, he tried to brush it off. Its just my assistant, Athena. Shes been pestering me about the smallest things. Ill give her a piece of my mind when we get back!

Ever gentle, Athena reassured him with a soft smile before heading off to try on the wedding dress.

A year ago, Emmett spared no expense in custom-making the dress abroad. When Athena slipped it on, she looked every bit the image of purity and grace. But when she stepped out of the fitting room, Emmett wasnt there.

The room had been reserved just for them, leaving the space eerily empty. When she couldnt reach him, Athena wandered the building, confusion building with every step, until she rounded a corner and froze.

Not far off, Emmett was holding another womans hand, his voice pleading, his tone submissive. The woman seemed emotional, brushing off his attempts to hold her.

But Emmett didnt relent; he pulled her into his arms and leaned in for a kiss. In the dim corner of the bridal shop, the two were consumed by their passion, oblivious to the world around them.

Athena watched in stunned silence as though the very earth had been ripped from beneath her. It felt as though she had been thrown into the flames, her heart burning with a pain so fierce it was unbearable.

The man who had once promised to love her more than life itself was the one who had torn her apart.

Athena pressed a hand to her chest, her breath coming in gasps as tears blurred her vision, flooding down her cheeks.

By the time Emmett returned, Athena had collected herself. He didnt notice anything out of the ordinary. Seeing her standing there, so stunning, he was moved, walking over to wrap her tightly in his arms.

Athena, you look breathtaking.

Emmett buried his face in her shoulder, his lips grazing her earlobe, his voice a soft, seductive whisper. My Athena is the most beautiful bride. I just want to make you mine, right here, right now.

As Athena gazed at their reflection in the mirror, her heart sank. The sorrow in her eyes mirrored the emptiness she felt inside.

Was she really beautiful? If she was, why had Emmett still betrayed her?

Why had he deceived her like this?

Athena didnt understand how things had spiraled so out of control. She had no idea how long Emmett had been hiding his lies from her or who that woman was.

She wanted to speak, but words failed her, and tears fell freely, staining her cheeks.

Emmetts eyes widened in panic. He reached for her face, gently cupping her cheeks as he frantically wiped away the tears. Whats wrong, Athena? Please, dont cry. Talk to me. Tell your husband whats going on.

His gaze was filled with genuine concern, no trace of deceit in his eyes.

His act was so convincing it was impossible to imagine that just moments ago, he had been holding another woman in his arms.

Athena fought to steady herself, her voice trembling. Its nothing Im just so happy.

Emmett let out a breath of relief, his hands tender as he wiped away the last of her tears, coaxing her with soothing words until she calmed.

Before leaving, Athena decided to use the excuse of forgetting something to return to the fitting room.

She approached a staff member and showed them the photo she had secretly taken earlier.

"Is this Miss Aliana Shes also preparing for her wedding," the staff member remarked, her eyes lighting up as she recalled something. She pointed to a high-end custom gown nearby. "What a coincidence. Miss Alianas wedding dress is from the same brand as yours and has a similar style. And even her fianc shares your surname!"

The words hit Athena like a thunderclap. Her face drained of color, her mind struggling to make sense of it all.

On the way home, Emmett glanced at her, his expression filled with concern. After a moment of hesitation, he finally spoke, gathering his courage.

"Athena, why do you look so upset?"

Athena slowly turned her face to him, locking eyes with him, her voice barely a whisper.

"Because today, I saw something I shouldnt have."

At her words, a flicker of unease passed through Emmetts eyes, and his demeanor shifted his face, which was growing tense.

"Really? What did you see?"

Athena held his gaze for a long moment before speaking, her voice calm but steady. "I saw someone who looked a lot like you, holding another womans hand while trying on a wedding dress."

"Impossible!" Emmetts reaction was instant and forceful. He shook his head vehemently. "You must have mistaken someone else for me. While you were trying on your dress, I was waiting outside the whole time. I only went to the restroom for ten minutes, and the staff saw me. Theres no way it was me!"

Athena stared at him as he raised his hand, swearing, "If I ever betray you, may lightning strike me down!"

His conviction was so unwavering that Athena almost found herself doubting her own instincts. But after loving Emmett for so long, she could picture him in her minds eye, even with her eyes closed. How could she possibly mistake him for someone else?

A sharp pain pierced her heart.

So it was true; there were people who could break their hearts in two, juggling multiple lives, weaving a web of lies so intricate that even they began to believe their own deceit.

"I trust you," Athena whispered, her voice trembling. "I trust that you would never betray me."

After the fitting, Emmetts friends had arranged a gathering.

When they arrived, the group had already begun a round of games. Upon seeing Athena and Emmett walk hand in hand, the others eagerly gathered around, excited to greet them.

Athena wasnt particularly familiar with them. She smiled politely and exchanged a few words before quietly heading upstairs, seeking a corner away from the noise.

But soon, voices drifted up from the stairwell.

Emmett, are you really planning to throw Aliana aside and marry that orphan from your family?

Athena recognized the voice of one of Emmetts old high school classmates.

She hadnt meant to eavesdrop, but something about the conversation pulled her in, and before she knew it, her feet had stopped moving, her body frozen in place.

What are you talking about? Of course, Aliana is the most important!

Aliana? Athenas mind raced. She remembered overhearing the servants talking about a famous actress who had recently returned to the country. That actress, it seemed, was none other than Aliana Forbes.

So what are you doing now? Every time theres a brothers' gathering, you bring her along. Have you forgotten what you promised, Aliana? You swore there wouldnt be any other woman by your side!

Can you stop bringing that up? Emmett complained, annoyance thick in his voice. Athena is nothing more than a little distraction to me. My heart still belongs to Aliana. But Grandpa insists I marry Athena and have an heir, or Ill lose the Davidson family inheritance and forget about being with Aliana!

I have to pretend every day like Im head over heels for her. Its exhausting!

His friend sounded doubtful. Is that really all there is to it? Youve been awfully kind to Athena. Be careful; pretending like that might make you fall for her.

Emmett went quiet for a moment. After a long pause, he shrugged casually.

What choice do I have? Shes an orphan, desperate for affection. Athena is completely smitten with me. If I show her a little kindness now, itll be easier to keep her in check when everything falls apart later.

Athena froze, her face tightening, her body shaking as though a cold wind had pierced her.

She didnt hear much more of their conversation, but soon, Emmetts laughter echoed through the air.

In front of me, Athena is like a dog. With one wave of my hand, she comes running. Dont worry, I wont screw this up.

With a sharp "thud," the drink in Athenas hand nearly slipped away, but she caught it just in time. Hearing footsteps approaching from downstairs, she quickly grabbed her drink and fled, praying they hadnt noticed her.

She had been wrong. Emmett hadnt torn his heart in two. It had always belonged to Aliana, and Athena had been nothing more than a tool in his hands.

Throwing her drink into the trash, Athena leaned against the wall, gasping for air, her chest tightening as though it were being squeezed by invisible hands.

Emmett had been right. She had been nothing more than a loyal dog, responding to his every command, leaving whenever he dismissed her.

Her chest ached as she pressed her palm against it, trying to steady her breath, but her vision blurred with the tears she refused to let fall. At least now, she could finally see through the lies. No longer would she debase herself in front of Emmett.

Wiping her eyes, Athena walked back as if nothing had changed. She had no memory of how she had left the scene, but her heart felt as if it had been shattered into a thousand jagged pieces.

All she knew was that she couldnt go back to him. There was nothing left between them. She could never forgive him.

Whenever she thought back to that day, it felt like reopening old wounds, each memory a fresh cut that stung anew. But as the days slipped by, she had grown numb to the pain. At least now, she no longer cried herself to sleep as she had done in the beginning.

Eventually, Athena took matters into her own hands and dug into Alianas past. What she uncovered was both shocking and heartbreaking. Aliana was Emmetts first love, an unforgotten piece of his heart, a connection that had never truly faded.

Every year, just before Valentines Day, Emmett would leave on a business trip. But Athena soon realized the truth: he wasnt flying across the world for work. He was flying for love, keeping the flame alive between him and Aliana.

Alianas sudden return to the country, Athena learned, was no coincidence. She was pregnant.

The first time Athena came face to face with the reality of their bond was through an anonymous text. The message was simple but devastating: a sentence and an ultrasound report.

The report was for Aliana and was dated just a week prior.

Athena, youve lost.

The words hit Athena like a punch to the gut. Her blood ran cold as her world crumbled around her.

From that point onward, the anonymous number became a constant presence in Athenas life, sending daily updates about Alianas every move. And every time, the man standing by her side was Emmett.

Two days ago, the number sent something new: a video. The footage showed Emmett, lips locked in a passionate kiss with Aliana, their chemistry undeniable.

Alianas voice echoed in the next message, laced with mocking venom. Emmett says youre like a corpse in bed, not even worth one of my toes. Do you really think youve secured your place as the young mistress of the Davidson family? In my presence, youre nothing.

Athena stared at the text message, her emotions swirling so violently that she missed her step on the stairs and tumbled down. The child she had carried for over a month was lost, turning into a pool of blood that slipped away from her body.

The agony of the miscarriage was compounded by its incompleteness. Alone in the sterile hospital room, Athena lay still as cold instruments scraped away the remnants of her baby. The clotted blood and tissue were flushed away, vanishing as if they had never existed.

When she finally awoke, her heart was shattered into pieces, and with it, the wedding she had once dreamed of.

Ever since Aliana had returned, every act, every whisper, had been a fresh wound, each one carving deeper into her heart. The love she had so freely given to Emmett had been drained dry, leaving her a hollow shell.

Standing before the grave, time seemed to stretch on forever, her legs growing numb from the stillness. Finally, Athena wiped away the last of her tears and made the call to arrange for her parents graves to be relocated.

Dad, Mom, Ill bring you home. From now on, well be free from the Davidson family.

She joined the team handling the relocation and spent five long days isolated from everything in her quiet, rural hometown.

During that time, Emmett called her repeatedly, his voice dripping with sweetness, asking where she was and why she hadnt come back.

At first, Athena answered with a few dismissive words and ended the call, but this time, Emmett didnt give her the chance to hang up. Instead, he video-called her directly.

Athena, should we make our wedding even more extravagant? Emmetts smile was warm, his voice tender as always. Just the thought of marrying you soon keeps me awake with excitement.

Athena forced a smile, a bitter taste rising in her throat. She wanted to tell him to stop pretending.

After everything, wasnt he tired of the endless games?

But she couldnt bring herself to say it. After all these years, she had truly loved Emmett.

Athena, why are you spacing out again? Emmetts frown deepened, clearly irritated. Is something more interesting than me?

Athena snapped back to reality, quickly redirecting her gaze to the screen, focusing on Emmetts face.

The background behind him seemed unfamiliar, an unfamiliar space she didnt recognize. It wasnt home. Athena hesitated for a moment before replying, Im in Skyridge, preparing a wedding gift for you.

Emmetts eyes lit up, his smile widening in delight.

A long time ago, they had cuddled up in bed, watching videos together.

Emmett had pulled Athena close, watching as couples visited Skyridge to create matching household items, something they had promised to do one day.

Why did you go by yourself? Emmetts playful annoyance was evident as the camera shook. He grabbed his coat, ready to move.

Wait for me. Im coming to Skyridge to find you!

But Athena stopped him. No need. Ill be back tomorrow.

At Emmetts words, Athenas gaze sharpened. He frowned deeply as though a great injustice had been done to him.

You dont want to see me?

No, Athena replied coolly, her lips barely moving. I just dont want you to see the gift Im preparing in advance. It would spoil the surprise.

Emmetts brows relaxed slightly, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips. Fine, he said, his voice laced with arrogance. Ill let it slide this time.

Blowing a kiss toward the screen, he added, Ill be waiting for your surprise.

Athena gave him a faint, unreadable smile. Without any change in her expression, she signed her name on the immigration application form. She hoped, for Emmetts sake, that this surprise would be enough to shatter whatever illusions he had about their future.

Afterward, she returned to Ravenloch.

She had already submitted the necessary materials to the agency and paid for expedited processing.

The agencys response came swiftly, confirming that she could cancel her household registration in the U.S. They would arrange a new identity for her abroad, complete with permanent residency rights.

If she wished, the entire process could be completed within three days.

Three days; that would have been the date of their wedding.

Athena transferred the money to the agent without hesitation, forcing her emotions into submission as she braced herself for what was coming next. She would pack everything with precision, cleanly, and quietly while Emmett was away.

What she didnt expect, though, was the person who awaited her as soon as she opened the door.

In that single, breathless moment when their eyes locked, Athena felt the intense urge to flee. But her gaze, almost against her will, dropped lower, landing on the woman standing in her home.

Aliana wore nothing but a green camisole, her damp hair clinging to her shoulders, droplets of water falling to the floor.

Aliana was the first to break the silence, casually running a hand through her damp hair as she flashed a smile. "Hello, Im Aliana."

There wasnt a hint of guilt for invading Athenas space. If anything, the smug look on her face only deepened. "Your eyes... they look so much like mine."

In the past, before Athena had discovered the truth about Emmett, she would have snapped back, her pride too sharp to ignore such a provocation. But now, she simply smiled and nodded, her response calm and almost detached.

"They do look quite similar," Athena agreed, her voice steady.

Aliana raised an eyebrow, her expression one of mild disbelief as she studied Athena. She had sent message after message, each one filled with intimate photos of her and Emmett, taunting Athena with their closeness. Yet, not once had Athena replied.

What Aliana didnt know was the countless nights Athena had spent drowning in heartache over those photos.

Through Alianas eyes, Emmett appeared so effortlessly charming that even candid shots seemed to belong in a high-fashion magazine. But Athena couldnt shake the memory of how much Emmett had despised being photographed. In all their five years together, they had never once taken a photo together.

Lost in her thoughts, Athena was snapped back to reality when she saw Emmett stepping out of the room.

The moment his eyes landed on Athena, his face tightened as if hed been caught.

Athena, why are you back so suddenly? Emmett hurried over, his grip on her hand firm as he stammered, Dont misunderstand. Aliana is the fiance of one of my close friends. Shes filming nearby, and when their hot water system broke, she came here to freshen up.

Alianas expression soured immediately. The flicker of resentment in her gaze was unmistakable as she glared at Athena.

Her gaze flickered between Emmett and Aliana before she finally spoke, her tone icy but polite. I hear youre about to marry soon. Congratulations, Miss Forbes.

Athena, holding Emmetts hand firmly, gave a smile that could have melted ice. Since you two are old friends, I wont question your relationship, she said, her voice sugar-sweet. But lets do this: when Miss Forbess wedding arrives, Ill gladly attend. And dont worry, Ill make sure to bring a very generous red envelope.

As Athena spoke, she noticed the uncomfortable shift in Emmetts expression; his face flushed with awkwardness, but she pretended not to notice. With a steady smile, she met both their gazes as if the tension was merely a breeze.

Aliana, of course, recognized the sarcasm immediately, but her smile only widened as though she didnt mind a bit. Youre more than welcome to attend, she said with an almost gloating air. My fianc has gone all out. The wedding dress is being custom-designed, weve hired makeup artists from world-renowned brands, and because I love lily-of-the-valley, hes even rented an entire farm to provide fresh blooms for the ceremony.

Athena listened to Alianas sweet words, but all she felt was an emptiness deep inside her.

She had been the one who meticulously planned every detail of her own wedding. Emmett was always busy, a convenient excuse. And whenever Athena expressed frustration, he would soothe her with words that seemed perfect at the time.

Youre the bride, Athena; everything should be about what you love. If you love it, Ill love it too.

But now, as the reality of the situation settled in, it became painfully clear. He wasnt busy; he simply didnt care.

The exact date of the wedding hasnt been set yet. He still has to deal with the woman his family insists on, but he promised that once thats out of the way, hell marry me and make me the happiest bride.

Athena couldnt even muster the strength for a fake smile. She stood there, frozen, until Emmett finally noticed the change in her demeanor. His attention shifted, and he hurriedly cut off Alianas words.

Dont you have work soon? Shouldnt you be leaving?

Alianas expression shifted, a cold snort escaping her lips before she walked into the bathroom. As she passed by Athena, she didnt miss the chance to mock.

Dont worry, Ms. Athena. Not everyone expresses love the same way. My fianc, for instance, loves me so deeply that hes willing to pour all his time and money into me.

With that, Aliana stormed out, leaving the two of them in an uncomfortable silence.

Emmett, clearly flustered, reached for Athenas hand and kissed it gently, his voice filled with urgency.

Athena, let me explain

Theres no need, Athena interrupted, her voice calm yet distant.

Everyone expresses love differently, I understand, she continued, her eyes never leaving his. I know youre busy, so you dont have time for me. But I also know

Athenas words faltered as the weight of her emotions hit her. She paused, swallowing the pain, before finishing quietly, I know you love me.

Unfortunately, you just love her more.

She didnt voice the thought, though it gnawed at her insides. As her gaze lingered on Emmetts face, tears slipped silently down her cheeks.

Seeing the tears, Emmett pulled her into his arms, the familiar gesture of comfort as he whispered soothingly.

Once were married

A fleeting shadow crossed Emmetts eyes. Once were married, everything will get better.

Will it really, Emmett?

The question echoed in Athenas heart, though she kept it to herself. Shed given him so many chances, lived in the illusion hed crafted for years.

But this time, she would no longer believe in his love.

The night before the wedding, the agent had sent all the documents electronically to Athena.

At that moment, Emmett held her from behind, his voice persistent as he teased about having a child together. He was insistent it had to be a boy.

When Athena saw the notification of foreign text flashing on the screen, Emmett furrowed his brow. Whats this?

Athena, with practiced calm, turned off the screen and casually replied, A few foreign poems. Im preparing my wedding vows for tomorrow.

Emmett, hearing her words, relaxed at once, his grip tightening as he pulled her into his arms with a soft smile. Wife, you really love me, dont you?

He lifted her gently, laying her on the bed, his eyes gleaming as he leaned over her. From now on, you have to keep loving me like this, okay?

Athenas gaze lingered on him, and with a teasing smile, she asked, What if I fall out of love?

You wont, he murmured, kissing her eyelids tenderly.

Neither will I, he added, his voice lowering. Remember what we said before: whoever falls out of love first will be struck by lightning.

Athena let out a soft laugh, the sound like music in the quiet room.

For the first time, she reached up and gently ruffled his hair, her touch tender. Yes, struck by lightning.

For some reason, Emmett felt a stirring unease, an instinctive sense that Athena had uncovered something, something he had hoped she wouldnt.

But it didnt matter, not anymore. He only had to endure a little longer.

Once they were married, Alianas baby arrived, and he could bring the child home and pass it off as his and Athenas. After securing the Davidson familys legacy, everything would fall into place. He could do whatever he wanted, no longer tethered to this charade.

Yet, in that moment, a strange pang of heartache tugged at him.

The silence stretched between them as they lay side by side, closer than ever yet worlds apart in their thoughts. Neither spoke, both wrapped in their own worlds, the weight of unspoken words pressing down on them.

Just as sleep threatened to take over, Emmetts phone rang, the sound sharp in the stillness of the night. He hurriedly left, his footsteps echoing in the quiet.

In the dark, Athenas eyes flickered open, her gaze following his retreating figure.

Emmett, where are you going? she asked.

Emmett paused mid-step, his expression momentarily betraying a flicker of hesitation. But in the end, he chose to lie.

Theres an urgent matter at work, and I need to handle it.

Athenas gaze fixed on him, and her voice trembled with a quiet plea. Will you come back?

Emmetts heart skipped a beat at the weight of her question. He forced a smile, the lie slipping off his tongue. Ill definitely come back. Wait for me, okay?

Without another word, he rushed out of the room, his hurried steps echoing in the silence.

Athena sat on the edge of the bed, the minutes dragging on like hours. She waited from midnight until 3 a.m. with the same emptiness swelling in her chest.

But Emmett didnt come home.

As the night wore on, Athenas phone buzzed with more photos from Aliana, pictures that felt like daggers, flaunting her victory.

Unshaken, Athena stood, her movements steady as she collected every memento Emmett had ever given her: letters, jewelry, property deeds, car titles, and even her own identification documents. She carried them to the balcony, each piece heavy with memories she was ready to burn.

Staring at the pile, Athenas lips trembled ever so slightly, her eyes clouded with confusion and helpless sorrow.

Her mind drifted back to that summer five years ago, to the moment Emmett confessed his love to her, making her a promise that now felt like a cruel joke.

Born in early summer, die in early summer.

A lifetime together, bound by the warmth of their youth.

But now, Athenas lips curled into a cold smile as she lit the lighter. She watched as the flames danced, consuming everything in their path. With the fire, the promises of their youth turned to ash, as fragile and fleeting as the love they once shared.

The next morning, Athena stood at the airport, clutching the stack of documents the agent had prepared for her.

Her gaze was steady, the uncertainty of the past fading behind her. She was ready to board the earliest international flight to Finland, leaving behind the dream of England she had once held so tightly.

She hadnt bothered to contact the makeup team, nor had she picked up her wedding dress. The irony wasnt lost on her; everyone, including Emmett, still believed she was consumed by preparations to become the most beautiful bride.

Just before boarding, Athenas phone rang. It was Emmett.

Athena, theres still an issue at work. The wedding might need to be postponed a little. Can you wait for me?

His voice was hurried, tinged with an edge of nervousness. Athena glanced at the message Aliana had sent just half an hour ago, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

Go ahead, she replied, her voice soft and surprisingly encouraging. Ill wait for you.

She paused before adding, Oh, by the way, the wedding gift I got for you is at home. Dont forget to take it.

Yes, maam, wife! Emmett replied with his usual cheer, planting a kiss on the phone before quickly ending the call.

Athena, with deliberate calm, navigated through the online portal, cancelling her number with a few swift clicks. She took the SIM card, the final thread connecting her to the life she had known, and tossed it into the nearest trash bin.

With her suitcase in hand, she took one last look at the airport before she walked away, leaving behind the place she had called home for 28 years.

At the same time, Emmett found himself tangled in a web of coaxing words from Aliana.

The night before, she had used the threat of suicide to pull him back into her orbit. And now, as she tried to close the distance between them, he abruptly pushed her away.

Youre fine now. I need to leave.

For some inexplicable reason, he felt a growing discomfort, as though something precious was slipping away from his grasp.

Youre marrying her tomorrow. Cant you make it up to me tonight?

Making it up to you is fine, Emmett replied. But not tonight.

Aliana felt a pang of hurt, tugging at his sleeve. The baby and I have waited so long for you. Cant she wait just a little longer?

As she spoke, she leaned in to kiss him, but Emmett turned his head sharply, his jaw tight.

Dont mess around, he warned, pushing her back gently. Ill come to you after Im done.

But Aliana wasnt ready to give up. She cried, pleading with him, her voice cracking with desperation. Then, without warning, she shed her outer garments, revealing the enticing lingerie beneath.

Caught in the storm of temptation, Emmett faltered, his resolve crumbling in the face of her allure.

What was meant to be a few hours turned into a night that nearly made him miss his own wedding?

Emmett awoke with a start, his heart racing. He quickly pulled himself together and dialed Athenas number, desperate to explain.

To his surprise, Athena didnt scold him. Instead, she quietly assured him she would wait. Her calm response struck him deeper than hed expected, and with a rush of gratitude, Emmett hurried toward the wedding venue.

But fate had other plans. Before he could even get halfway there, his best friends frantic voice exploded through the phone.

Damn it, Emmett! Where the hell are you?!

His best friend screamed on the other end of the line, The staff said the wedding was canceled two weeks ago! What wedding are you even going to?!

No... that cant be true! Panic surged through Emmett as he scrambled to make sense of it. Without thinking, he hung up and dialed Athenas number.

But when the call went straight to voicemail, dread gripped him. The number that had always been within reach was now disconnected.