Goodbye, I’m Leaving You Behind

I had always believed Damien and I were destined for forever. From the moment we were born, we were promised to each other, inseparable, our lives entwined like threads in the same tapestry.

Then the fire happened.

He had gone into the stables when the flames erupted, the smoke thick and choking. He would have died there, trapped in the blaze, if not for herAriana, a servant girl. She dragged him out, coughing and half-conscious, her arms blackened with soot. From that moment, nothing remained the same.

His father had said, If you want to marry Celeste, you must keep Ariana close until the favor is repaid.

And Damien had agreed. He said it was for me, for us, for the future we were meant to share.

But there was more. A promise he made to her, strange and ridiculous at the time: if she ever felt unhappy, he would drop everything and rush to her side. I had laughed it off. How often could she be unhappy? I couldnt have been more wrong. With Ariana, misery seemed endless.

The first sign came on my birthday. She looked at me with soft, almost sorrowful eyes. Ive never had a party like this, she whispered.

And Damien? He turned to me.

Celeste please. Let her have this one, he begged.

I froze. It was my birthday. Mine. And yet, I gave it up. Because he asked. Because I feared disappointing him.

Later, I cried, telling him, Maybe we shouldnt get married at all.

Panic lit up his face. That night, the city blazed with fireworks, tens of millions spent just to stop me from walking away. On his knees, he whispered, Everything I do, Celeste, its for us. So we can be together sooner. Dont doubt me.

I believed him. Always.

The second test came when Ariana visited our wedding home. She ran her fingers along the walls, eyes wide. Ive never seen anything so beautiful.

And Damien gave it to her. Just like that. Later that night, he pulled me close. Ill find you another one, Celeste. Bigger, better. Just give me a little more time.

So I waited. And waited. I watched as our home, our car, even the cats we had planned to raise together, were given awaypiece by pieceto her. Every time, he promised something more, something better, would come to me.

By the ninety-ninth time, my heart had frayed. But I clung to hope. That day was meant to be the end. The favor was finally repaid. I sat outside the City Clerks Office, ready to finally marry him.

He didnt show.

Instead, the news hit me: he had spent a fortune on a red diamonda flawless gem meant to symbolize a once-in-a-lifetime gift. And he had given it to her. Ariana.

My chest went cold. My fingers trembled as I dialed his number.

W-Damien were not getting married, I said.

He laughed. Throwing a fit again, Celeste? Threatening me? Then his voice dropped, low and teasing, the one he reserved for her. Dont worry, Celeste. Ill come back to you once shes repaid.

Those words. Again. Always those same words. Five years of them, swallowed every single time.

This time, I didnt cry. Didnt plead. I simply hung up. Calmly.

He thought I was sulking. Sent someone with a bigger diamond, thinking it would fix everything. Thought I was jealous. Thought I would wait.

But he didnt know. That was my final chance.

I called my aunt in France. Ive made my choice. Ill accept the marriage we talked about last time.

She cried on the other end, over and over thanking me. Relief and happiness in her voice.

I smiled faintly, phone pressed to my ear, though my heart felt like ashes.

For the first time in years, I wasnt waiting.

Later, I sat on my bedroom floor, staring at everything Damien had ever given me. I reached for the music box he had ordered when we were children, the one I had once thought magical. Then the sweater he had clumsily knitted in middle school, his pride clear as he tugged it over my shoulders. The ring he had first proposed with, the symbol of our supposed future together.

Mixed among these were the things he had given me only because of Arianathe diamonds, the shoes, the purses meant to soothe me after he had already given something precious of ours to her. I packed them all. Every single one.

By midnight, the boxes were ready. I told my assistant to deliver them straight to him. Then I grabbed the signet ring, the token of our two families bond, and drove to our wedding home.

The door code was the same: his birthday, then mine. My chest ached as I pressed the numbers, but I went inside.

The lock clicked, and he appeared, startled. Celeste? Relief and a small smile on his face. You dont like the diamond? I can get you another. And yesterday wasnt the right date anywaysomeones picking a new one for the certificate.

I didnt answer. I pointed at the boxes. I came to return something.

His smile faltered. His brows knitted in irritation.

Then I heard the light, careless footsteps. Ariana ran down from upstairs, barefoot, clinging to his waist as if she belonged there.

And my entire body froze.

My gaze fell on the shirt she wore, and my stomach twisted sharply. That shirt the one I had bought for him on our first anniversary. Back then, I had nothingonly meager scraps of savings from skipping meals and pawning my mothers necklace. When I handed it to him, he had broken down completely. He pressed a gentle kiss to my forehead and swore I would never have to bleed for him again. He promised to shield me from every hardship life could throw my way. For years, he folded that shirt carefully, keeping it like a relic, too precious to ever be worn.

And now she wore it. Smiling. Leaning into him.

Her eyes found mine as if she had just noticed me standing there, then she pressed her cheek to his back, feigning shyness. Why didnt anyone tell me someone was here? Look at meI must look ridiculous.

Damien frowned, trying to free himself, but she only clung tighter. The pride in her gaze it wasnt even hidden.

I forced my eyes elsewhere. Im just here to return some things. When its convenient, please hand me back the token.

I held out the signet ring. The symbol of everything I had thought would last.

He hesitated for a heartbeat, and I dared to think he might finally see me. But instead, he tightened his grip on her hand and sneered. Do you really think Im free right now?

Breathing felt impossible. My fingers shook around the box, trying to stop myself from trembling. I had told myself I was ready to walk awaybut seeing this, seeing them like this, cracked something deep inside me.

I remembered the first time we had fought over her. He had fallen to his knees, swearing that everything he did was to repay a debt, that it was only temporary, that the delay in our wedding was meant to bring us together sooner.

But her debt never ended. It grew and consumed everything I should have had with him.

Tonight, the last snowflake fell, and the avalanche finally broke free.

I could let go.

I placed the signet ring carefully on the table, forcing my hand not to shake. Then when its convenient, have someone return it to me.

I had planned to speak, to finally say the wordslets end thisbut then I saw her nails clutching at his shirt, clinging to him like she owned him. His body stiffened under her touch. My stomach twisted violently. I couldnt stay another second. I turned and walked toward the door.

Wait.

His voice cut through the room like a knife. I froze.

Are you really breaking off the engagement? His tone was low, dark, threatening.

I tilted my head just enough for him to hear. Yes.

I caught the curve of his mocking lips. He stepped forward suddenly and kicked the boxes stacked against the wall. If youre ending this, why are you holding on to this junk?

He stared at me, waiting for me to crumble, waiting for tears like before. But I didnt.

Youre right, I said evenly. No need to keep them. If they bother you, throw them out yourself.

His fists clenched, knuckles cracking audibly. I wouldnt touch your things. Take them yourself. So you dont have an excuse to come crawling back later.

Fine.

Numb, I entered the bedroom and began gathering every fragment of myself from the space. This had been our wedding room. Every shelf, every drawer, every corner held the memories we had built together since childhood. Now I was erasing myself, piece by piece.

When my eyes landed on the red bedsheetwrinkled, stainedmy stomach lurched. I pressed my hand to my mouth, choking back bile. That sheet evidence. Proof of what they had done, of his betrayal.

Tears threatened to fall, but I swallowed hard and forced myself to calm down.

From the living room, I could hear themgiggling, laughing like lovers who wanted me to feel every bit of it. They wanted me broken.

I kept my expression blank, kept folding, kept packing. When everything that was mine was gone, I closed the bedroom door gently.

Then his voice reached me again. Celeste remember when you promised to do something for me, unconditionally? That still counts, right?

My heart stuttered. Memories flooded back: the summer after college exams, the swollen river, my reckless attempt to cross it. The current almost swept me away, and he had jumped in without hesitation, pulling me to safety with one arm while the other scraped against jagged rocks. Blood ran freely, yet he smiled, so I wouldnt feel guilty.

I had promised then, tears in my eyes, to do anything he asked, one day, no questions asked.

Back then he had said, All I want is for Celeste to be happy for the rest of her life.

I had laughed, telling him to choose something for himself. He had only smiled. As long as youre with me, I dont need anything else.

And now here he was. Softly kissing her forehead. Maddie wants cherry cake from Sun Valley. Go get it.

I stared at him, burning holes into him with my gaze, then whispered, Alright.

Even this favormy last promisewas for her. Always for her.

And that was fine. That way, nothing remained between us.

When I stepped outside, New York had been swallowed by a storm. Snow fell thick and fast, clinging to my hair, my lashes, coating the streets in a treacherous white. I gritted my teeth, climbed into the car, and drove, even though I knew the roads were against me.

Ive never been a confident driver, and the slick streets, coated with fresh snow, nearly threw me off more than once. Every block felt like a battle, every turn a gamble.

By the time I finally got the cherry cake, my legs were wobbly from slipping on the icy sidewalks countless times. My fingers were numb, the box barely in my grasp. I handed it to her.

She took a bite, scrunched her face, and spat it into a napkin.

Its freezing. It tastes awful! she whined.

Damien didnt respond. Without a word, he tossed the entire box into the trash, crouched down, and scooped her up into his arms. Come on. Ill take you somewhere warm to eat.

I stayed frozen, holding myself together, until he glanced at me, irritation written all over his face. Why are you just standing there? Get in the car.

I had no strength left to argue. Sliding into the back seat, I pressed my head against the cold glass, shutting out everything around me.

The ride was torture. Ariana leaned against him, whispering into his ear, and he let her. Their laughter echoed in my skull, a dull thrum against the numbness in my limbs. I closed my eyes, willing myself to pretend this wasnt happening.

Then, headlights blazed into my vision. A car from the opposite lane had spun on the ice, sliding straight toward us.

Damien didnt hesitate. He swerved sharply, the world tilting sideways, and in the split second before impact, he threw himself over her, shielding her completely.

The crash slammed into me like thunder. Pain shot through my body, the world narrowing to one image: him. Him holding her. Protecting her.

My lips trembled, and everything went black.

---

When I woke, I was in a hospital bed. A stranger told me they had found me unconscious and brought me here. A week passed. Not once did Damien appear.

Every day, though, I saw her. Ariana. Her posts were sharp as knives, images of him at her bedside, holding her hand, feeding her soup.

I didnt expect that between life and death, he would choose me, she wrote.

He wanted to see you, but I said I had a headache, so he stayed.

Celeste, Ill make sure Im the only one in his heart.

I blocked her. I blocked him too.

Before, I might have hoped we could part without hate, that some shard of what we once had could survive. But after this no. I didnt want to see him again. Not once, not ever.

The day after discharge, it was his mothers birthday. I wanted to stay away, to cut every tie to the Thompsons. But she called relentlessly, begging me to come, even threatening that she wouldnt celebrate if I didnt.

She had always been good to me. After my parents died, she treated me like her own daughter. I couldnt ignore her, especially since she was the only warmth left in that house. Besides, if I was ending this engagement, I needed to do it in front of her and his father. They deserved to hear it from me.

I agreed.

His mother loved grand celebrations. By the time I arrived, the house was alive with glittering lights and laughter, as if nothing had ever gone wrong.

And then I saw them.

Ariana holding Damiens arm, steadying him, his voice sharp and cutting through the hum of the party.

She noticed me. Striding toward me, she tilted her head and smiled that cruel little smile.

Look at you. Nearly got yourself killed just to protect me, she mocked.

My stomach tightened. Before I could even move, her gaze locked on mine. Damiens mother is so on your side. You must feel very proud, she said, her voice dripping with contempt.

I tried to pull away, but she clung to my arm, nails digging into my skin.

Shes only on your side because of your mother, she spat. Your parents were short-lived, werent they? Gone. How long can that friendship last? Once I have Damien, do you think shed ever go against her own son for you?

Something inside me snapped. My parentsno one dared touch them. Before I realized it, my hand had struck her face. The sound of it cracked through the room.

Her eyes widened, then narrowed, and she stumbled back, sobbing into Damiens arms.

I only told her not to stay angry at you! she cried. But she said I shouldnt care at all. That you mean nothing to her!

Damiens expression darkened. He looked at me like I was a stranger.

Celeste. APOLOGIZE.

I laughed bitterly. The man who once shielded me from everything now stood as her protector. I stared at them, then turned toward the door. I wanted no part in this twisted display.

But Damiens hand clamped onto my wrist, hard enough to make me wince. The pain in my bones was nothing compared to the ache in my chest, seeing him believe her.

I lifted my eyes to him, steady and unflinching. I hit her because she insulted my parents. And as for you shes right. Someone who chooses her over me without even asking the truth is nothing to me.

One by one, I pried his fingers off, refusing to be trapped, and finally walked away.

By the time I reached the stairs, a single tear had slipped down my cheek before I could stop it. My mind flashed to years ago, to his friend who had tried the same trick, painting me as cruel and selfish. Back then, Damien hadnt hesitated for even a second. He had defended me fiercely, even dragging out security footage to make sure his family would never misunderstand me. I had believed, naively, that he would always stand by my side. But now? He didnt even pause. He simply believed her.

I dug my nails into my palm, desperate to stop the tears. I wanted nothing more than to turn and walk away, never look back. But Damiens mother kept speaking softly, pleading for me to stay. She had been good to me since childhood. After my parents died, she had treated me like her own. How could I abandon her now?

I slipped away from the crowd, searching for a quiet corner, a small refuge where I could breathe, where I could gather what little composure I had left.

After the engagement broke, I noticed how terrified Mrs. Thompson was that Damien might run straight back to Ariana. She didnt want that door to close completely between him and me, so she kept guiding him to my side during every moment of the banquet. Ariana, by contrast, was left sulking in the corner.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a drunk, entitled young man stumble over to her, pressing himself into her space. He wouldnt leave, and the crowd around them pretended not to notice. Everyone had seen what had happened earlier, yet no one intervened. Arianas eyes grew red, her lip trembling as though she might cry.

Then, as if summoned by some unseen force, Damien appeared. His fist slammed into the mans face with brutal precision. The guy staggered back, clutching his jaw.

Damien! You wouldnt let me touch Celeste before, and now you wont let me touch her either? the man shouted. Celestes your fiance, but who the hell am I to you?

Damiens gaze lingered on him for a long, tense moment before flicking to me. His jaw tightened, his voice low and deadly.

Shes mine.

The room went silent. My chest constricted.

Then, in a cruel twist that made my stomach turn, I watched him sweep Ariana into his arms and kiss her fiercely, loudly, as everyone watched. She clung to him as if she would collapse without him.

If anyone dares bother Ariana again, he said, his voice a dangerous growl, I will never let them go.

The room shifted around me. People who had defended me hours earlier now gathered around her, forming a protective circle as if she were a queen. My stomach lurched so violently I could barely breathe. I ran to the bathroom, slamming the door behind me, pressing my hands over my mouth to stifle sobs, but the tears came anyway, hot and unstoppable. My chest ached from crying so hard.

Finally, I sent Mrs. Thompson a text, apologizing, saying I wasnt feeling well and would return another day to speak with her. I wiped my face, took a shaky breath, and opened the door.

I barely made it two steps before someone grabbed my wrist.

It was Xander, the same man Damien had just punched. His grin was cruel, his eyes dark and assessing.

Honestly, he said, voice low and teasing, Ive always liked you better than that Ariana. I only stayed away because Damien protected you like you were priceless. But now hes protecting someone else. If you want, I can take over.

I recoiled, jerking my wrist free. I dont want you. And this is the Thompson manor. Id think twice before doing anything reckless here.

His expression darkened, anger from the earlier punch flaring. He lunged, shoving me against the wall, and then his lips crashed against mine.

I fought, hands trembling, clawing for the emergency phone on the wall. Miraculously, I hit it.

Damien! Xander wont leave me alone, come quick

But all I heard was his sneer over the line.

Maddy was harassed by him, and now you too? Celeste, when did you start playing games like this?

My throat tightened. I didnt! He really is

The line went dead.

Ice slid into my veins. Damien had hung up.

Xanders grip tightened, dragging me toward the bathroom. Panic roared in my ears. I grabbed the nearest decoration from the wall and smashed it against him with all my strength.

He screamed in pain and loosened his hold. I bolted, stumbling into the bathroom, slamming the door and locking it with shaking hands. My whole body shivered as I called Mrs. Thompson, begging her to send someone.

She arrived quickly. Her orders were sharp and immediate: servants dragged Xander out as he cursed and kicked, his rage fading with every step. I collapsed against the door, utterly drained.

Mrs. Thompson didnt scold me. She didnt question me. She simply directed the servants to help me upstairs to change. When the banquet ended, she insisted on sending me home herself.

At the car, she reached out, adjusting my hair like my mother used to. Before you leave for Europe, come see me more often, she whispered, eyes glistening but voice calm. Ill send your token later.

I nodded, thanking her with every ounce of strength I had left, and slid into the car.

We were still some distance from my apartment when the drivers phone rang. I hadnt meant to listen, but Damiens voice came through, sharp and urgent.

Turn around immediately! Ariana has a stomachache. She needs to go to the hospital now.

I turned toward the window, silent. It was always her. Always.

The driver stole a glance at me in the rearview mirror, his voice barely above a whisper, like he was afraid of saying the wrong thing. Madam said Miss Celeste was upset earlier She told me to bring you home first.

I snapped, my voice sharper than I intended. Since when do you care about outsiders? Huh?

Outsider. That word cut through me. My hands clenched the strap of my bag until my knuckles ached. That was who I had becomenothing more than an outsider.

I didnt want to make things harder for him, so I told him to stop the car and let me out. He hesitated for only a heartbeat, then pulled over. The cold air hit me the second my feet touched the pavement, biting and harsh. Within moments, the taillights had vanished into the night.

I trudged along the empty street, scarf wound tightly around my face. The wine from the banquet still buzzed faintly in my system, and my thoughts wandered to memories I shouldnt have revisited. Mrs. Thompsons last birthday floated into my mindeveryone teasing us about wedding dresses and future children, all of it light, warm, and full of laughter. That day, I had been so happy that I drank too much and ended up doubled over with stomach pain.

It had been storming that night. No taxis. Damien couldnt use the family car. But he didnt care. He had carried me through icy streets all the way to the hospital, refusing to let me cry, refusing to let me suffer alone.

And now, a year later, that same Damien could leave me standing alone on the roadside for Ariana.

My nose stung. I tightened my scarf, keeping my steps slow and deliberate. By the time I reached my apartment, my muscles ached from the cold.

I was just about to unlock the door when a hand suddenly covered my eyes from behind. Guess who?

My heart jumped, but I forced myself to remain calm. Slowly, I pried his hand away, keeping my face unreadable.

It was Damien.

His frown deepened when he realized I wasnt playing along. He lowered his hand awkwardly and pulled a small box from his pocket. My mom said you left something behind, he murmured, turning it over between his fingers. I was told to bring it back. What is it?

The box wobbled lightly in his grip, and my breath caught. That small container it held the token of trust my mother had exchanged with the Thompsons before she died.

I lunged forward, snatching it from him before he could pry it open.

His eyes narrowed. Celeste are you hiding something from me?

I could feel the sharp corners of the box digging into my palm. Once, Damien and I had promised never to keep secrets from each other. That was before Ariana. Before lies became effortless, before he learned how to bend the truth without a second thought.

I gripped the box tighter, the ache radiating into my chest. I looked up at him. Its not a secret. But theres no reason I should tell you.

We werent anything anymore.

I turned toward my door, wishing this night could end.

But he moved faster. Damien yanked my bag open and pulled the box back into his hands. Really? His voice dripped with mockery. What is this? A gift from some outsider? Is that why you didnt want me to see it?

Something inside me shattered. I didnt think. I reached for it, stretching onto my toes, desperate to reclaim it before he could open it.

He held my hand, steadying me. I knew he liked this, the way it reminded him of the pastwhen I had laughed, thrown myself into his arms, begged for what he had taken. He used to love that.

This time, I stared up at him, and he noticed. My eyes were red. His smile faltered.

You cried just because I wanted to see it? he asked quietly.

I pressed my lips together. All I wanted was for him to hand it back. That was all. But before I could explain, his phone started ringing. Once. Twice. Over and over, relentless. I glanced downthe screen lit up with her name. Ariana.

Damien shifted, restless, visibly anxious. Finally, he muttered, She keeps calling. I dont know whats wrong maybe something happened. Shes alone. I should go

Give me back my things, then leave, I interrupted, voice steady.

His face darkened. I could see the words die in his throat. But the phone wouldnt stop. Finally, he shoved the box into my hands, rough and careless. The lid popped open, and a yellowed piece of paper slid out, fluttering to the floor.

He glanced at it once, then turned and left without a word.

I bent down, picked it up, and saw what it was. Our marriage certificate, waiting for his signature. Without thinking, I tore it into pieces. The scraps fell into the trash along with whatever remained of us.

After that night, I knew there was nothing left for me here. Nothing but emptiness and cold streets. No family, no ties, only this city that had turned its back on me. I had to sell everything before leaving.

My parents apartment. The wedding house Damien had bought for us. Both names on the deeds meant I couldnt just walk away. I had to see him one last time.

I sent him a message. Silence. I waited, but time wasnt on my side. I didnt want to return to New York later just to settle this. So I opened his profile, hoping to find some clue where he wasbut the moment I clicked, my heart dropped. I had been blocked.

The air seemed to vanish from my lungs. I thought about calling his mother, but she told me Damien hadnt come home since that night.

Swallowing my pride, I messaged Ariana. I need to speak to Damien. Tell him, please, and let me know.

Her reply came instantly. An address.

It was the villaour holiday home, the place wed shared in secret, where no one else was ever allowed. Where I had kissed him for the first time. Where hed whispered that this sanctuary would always be ours, untouchable.

And now she had been there too.

I told myself not to think, not to feel, and drove. The road wound through silent trees, but when I arrived, the silence was gone. Laughter echoed everywhere. Strangers filled the house that had once been ours alone.

I walked along the garden path, chest tight with dread. Then I saw them.

Ariana, half-kneeling, her lips brushing his cheek. Thank you for letting me bring my friends here, she said, honeyed and sweet.

He moved slightly to pull away, but then his eyes liftedand they landed on me.

The trace of her kiss still lingered on his face. And all I could think of was that night, our first kiss right here in this villa. My awkward, clumsy little thank-you kiss. Hed smiled then, so warmly, and after that, he always asked for kisses whenever I made him happy. Every corner, every wall here had witnessed our love.

And now they would see it end.

I waited until she finally stepped back, then took a careful step forward. My hands shook slightly as I held out the papers.

You bought our wedding house, I said quietly. Since were done, it should go back to you. Take a look. If you dont want it, Ill buy it back at market price.

Damiens gaze sharpened. Cold. His knuckles cracked as he gripped the documents as though they were filthy. He stared at me for a long moment before speaking.

Anything else?

I swallowed hard, forcing my voice steady. I still have some things inside. Id like to collect them this time.

His expression darkened, as though Id said something unforgivable.

Arianas hand flew to her lips in a fake gasp. Oh, I thought all that stuff in there was junk. I moved everything to the storage room. Want me to take you?

I nodded politely. Thank you.

She smiled, sweet and calculating, brushing her hand against Damiens shoulder as if claiming him. She started to move, but he caught her wrist instantly.

Ill go with you, he said.

Her cheeks colored. She pouted. Why are you so clingy?

I lowered my eyes and walked ahead, pretending I hadnt noticed anything.

The storage room was tinythe smallest in the house. Cramped. Stale. Barely enough room for two.

Damien leaned against the doorway, eyes cold as ice, watching silently while I rifled through my belongings. The weight of his silence pressed on me.

Ariana crouched beside me, pretending to help, her perfume thick and suffocating in the confined space. Her voice was soft but cutting.

Youve found so many reasons to see him again. You really havent let go, have you? Fine, Ill help.

Before I could even react, she brushed against a shelf, and a box teetered, then toppled.

I barely had time to react.

Damiens pupils narrowed. He lungedbut not toward me. He grabbed Ariana, pulling her up into his arms with a ferocity that left her stunned.

The box missed her by inches, but slammed into my shoulder. The impact sent me tumbling to the floor, pain flashing bright and blinding.

I crumpled there.

Damien frowned, just frowned. Then, without a glance my way, he cradled her as if she were glass, her arm scratched, and rushed her outside. I heard him call for a car, voice sharp with concernbut none of it was for me.

Pain spread through my body, and I could barely breathe. My vision blurred. Yet in the creeping darkness, a thought brought me a strange calm:

Its good I dont love him anymore.

If I dont love him, I wont cry when he chooses her over me.

If I dont love him, I can finally stop waiting for someone who will never save me.

Arianas friends swarmed when they saw her tiny scratch. Damien hustled her to the car, to the hospital. No one glanced back.

I dont know how long I lay there. Dawn found me. The maid discovered my crumpled form in the storage room, eyes wide in shock. She called for an ambulance immediately. She even called Damien.

Mr. Damien, I heard her say faintly through the phone. Miss Celeste was badly hurt. She collapsed in the storage room. The ambulance is on its way. Do you want to see her?

A pause. Then his voiceflat, indifferent, final.

Why should I go? The ambulance is coming. It doesnt concern me anymore.

The maid tried again. He snapped, voice sharp. Make sure she and her things are cleared out properly. I dont want her cluttering my home.

The line went dead.

I lay there, lips pale, body strangely still. Somehow, my heart felt unnervingly calm. This was itfinally fading completely from his world.

Later, the doctors told me the injuries werent fatal. Still, the maid didnt know who else to call, and in the end, she reached out to Damiens mother.

The moment she heard, she rushed over, panic written all over her face. That night, she stayed by my side, tending to me with care the way her son never would.

I woke to raised voices outside my door, carried clearly down the silent corridor.

You idiot! his mothers voice rang sharp with anger. I dont care where you are! If you want any chance of fixing things with Celeste, get here immediately. If you let this slide, shell never forgive you!

For a heartbeat, I held my breath, waiting. Hoping.

Then his voice slithered through, low and cruel. Why should it matter if she forgives me? The engagement is done. Her things are gone. Even if she dies, I wont show up at her funeral.

Click. The phone line went dead. Silence swallowed the corridor.

The door opened, and his mother stepped in, cheeks flushed, hands trembling slightly. Embarrassed, her gaze landed on me. Celeste Damien you know how he is when hes angry. He says things he doesnt mean. Dont let it hurt you.

I shook my head. Words felt useless. He didnt need protecting from me. He was rightwe were done. Hed severed all ties; I had to do the same.

She sighed softly, a sound of quiet resignation. She moved closer, perched on the edge of my bed, and unfolded a piece of paper.

Celeste, she said gently, handing it to me, these are dowries Ive prepared for you. Youre going far, starting fresh on your own. Youll need property, finances, security. These will give you strength.

My chest constricted. I shook my head quickly. Mrs. Thompson I cant take this.

Her hand covered mine. If your mother hadnt brought me out of that little village years ago, I wouldnt even be here. I owe her and I owe you. Damien wronged you. As his mother, I need to make this right.

Her eyes softened. Once youre in Europe, Ill make sure someone helps you with the transfers.

The door burst open suddenly.

A familiar voice cut through sharply. Whos going to Europe?

I froze. I dropped my lashes, kept my mouth shut. I didnt look at him, pretending he wasnt even there.

His mother glanced between us and let out a small sigh. Its Celeste she

He cut her off, eyes sliding to mine. Youre going to Europe? Right. You mentioned before that you wanted to visit your aunt. But your injuries this time are serious. Its not safe yet. How about we wait a little? I can stay with you for now, get things organized, then go with you.

A bitter laugh threatened to escape me. Yes, Id once told him I wanted to go. Hed promised to come with me. And yet he never had.

Why? Because Ariana had whispered to him her envy. She said I always had someone by my side, while she, poor little Ariana, had never left her village. She claimed shed never seen the world. So he canceled his plans behind my back and took her abroad instead. Together. Leaving me alone.

I remembered that day so clearly. I waited until the last flight was gone, calling endlessly, heart aching with worry. Then dawn came, along with the photoshim and Ariana at another airport. Smiling. Together.

And now, after everything, he stood here acting as if he still planned to go with me. Nothing left to hope for.

I opened my mouth, ready to tell him the truth. That I wasnt going to visit family. That I was marrying. That I wasnt leaving for a short whileI was leaving New York for good. Id never return unless I had no choice.

Before I could speak, he sneered. You dont need me to go? Then who do you want? That pretty boy who gave you a gift the other day? Dont tell me youre going alone. You couldnt even read a boarding pass. Youd get lost and end up crying, begging me to rescue you.

I exhaled, heavy and exhausted. I wanted to tell him he was wrong. I didnt need him. I didnt want him. He had no place near my wedding.

But I never got the chance. His phone lit up. He glanced at it, face softening in an instant. Turning away, he muttered, Alright. Seems like youve got plenty of strength. That makes me feel better. Maddie hates being alone, so Ill go keep her company. Europe? Ill come with you once youre healed.

He even smiled at his mother. Thanks for taking care of your daughter-in-law, Mom.

Her gaze cut him cold. Get out.

Goodbye, Damien, I said.

For a moment, he froze. His shoulders tensed, and he turned back toward me as if I were offering forgiveness. As if I were giving him hope. His hand brushed against my hair.

Goodbye, Celeste. Ill bring you flowers and cake tomorrow, he murmured.

I stared at him, steady and unflinching, but he didnt even bother to meet my gaze. He simply walked away, lighter on his feet, retreating straight to Ariana.

His mother watched him leave, then turned to me. The sigh she released spoke volumes, more than words ever could.

---

Damien never appeared in my hospital room, despite his promise. Instead, he sent some errand boy with a cake and a sunflowerwhich I hated because of my allergy.

I didnt even look at them. I handed the items directly to the servant his mother had assigned to care for me and returned to packing my things.

Half an hour earlier, I had seen Arianas post online. She was flaunting herself again, claiming that Xander had discovered she was hospitalized and tried to bother her. Luckily, Damien had swooped in, playing hero.

She whined playfully about only having a tiny scratch and how Damien had exaggerated things, forcing her to stay in the hospital for a week. Then she giggled about how it gave Xander more chances to harass her. In the end, of course, she forgave himbecause he had bought her favorite cake, apologized, and saved her.

Beneath her post was a photo of Damien on one knee, smiling as he opened a cake box for her.

I pressed like. Then I blocked them both.

The servant returned just as I zipped my bag. Miss Celeste, everything is ready. The car is waiting downstairs. We can leave now.

I nodded and followed silently.

When the elevator stopped on the eighth floor, the doors slid open. There, in front of me, I saw Ariana leaning in, brushing a kiss across Damiens cheek. He stood by her hospital room door, a faint smile on his face.

I just watched. Felt nothing. No anger, no sorrow. Nothing at all.

---

A week later, I was scheduled to fly to Europe for my marriage. I had refused so many times, but Damiens mother wouldnt listen. She insisted on a farewell party, even preparing a dress and jewelry for me. I had no choice but to stay a bit longer, planning to head to the airport immediately after.

That night, everyone from my childhood showed up. Everyoneexcept Damien.

During the party, someone leaned in, whispering with a sly smirk, I thought you two were really done. You said the engagement was over, and hes been showing that servant woman all over town. Yet here you are, still connected. Must be fate, huh?

I frowned, confused. What do you mean?

They blinked at me and then looked away, saying nothing further.

I stopped trying to make sense of it. I smiled instead, turning to the elders who had always cared for me and thanked them. I hugged my friends one by one, inviting them to my wedding in Europe if they could come.

Youre marrying here? Will Damien even let that happen? one asked.

I shook my head, a faint smile playing on my lips. Not with him.

They exchanged shocked glances, unable to ask more. To them, my life had always been tied to Damien. Everyone knew he would be my husband since childhood. He had made sure no one else came near me. If I wasnt marrying him who else could I possibly marry? I laughed bitterly.

The room grew awkward, but I didnt care. I checked the time and excused myself, heading to say goodbye to his mother.

As I stepped out, I saw one of my friends on the phone. Where are you? Why didnt you come tonight? You knowCeleste

Damiens voice cut in, calm but urgent. Shes upset I didnt show, right? Dont tell her, but Im on my way. I planned a surprise. Help mebring her to the rooftop garden. Ive got the ring. Dont let her leave. Then the line went dead.

My friend stared at the phone as if it had betrayed him. Who was telling the truth? Me, leaving to marry another? Or Damien, rushing to propose?

I didnt wait for his answer. I had already changed and directed the servants to load my luggage. He spotted me and ran over.

Where are you going? Europe? Why so fast? Cant you wait?

I paused. He had grown up with me; maybe it was hard for him to accept. I forced a smile. If I wait, Ill miss my flight. Dont worrywell see each other again. Come to my wedding, okay?

He grew frantic. Are you really marrying someone else? Does Damien know? Shouldnt you at least say goodbye to him?

My chest tightened at the mention of his name. I shook my head softly. No.

He opened his mouth to argue, but I checked the time and cut him off gently. I really have to go now.

I slid into the car and shut the door. Slowly, the vehicle rolled out of the Thompson estate.

At that exact moment, another car passed ours. Through the glass, I caught a glimpse of Damienholding a small ring box, eyes shining with anticipation.

I didnt glance again.

He was probably imagining my surprise, picturing the perfect momentour parents, childhood friends, everyone who mattered, and me, the girl he still thought he owned.

But I was already gone.

Damien'S POV

I rushed upstairs after changing clothes, heart pounding like I was a teenager again. The rooftop garden was all set, lights glowing soft and romantic, the ring box heavy in my hand. Tonight was it. I had already done my duty by Ariana, repaid her for saving me. That chapter was closed. From now on it was only Celeste.

I sent a quick text to my buddy. Bring her up. Everythings ready.

No reply.

I frowned, pacing back and forth, glancing up at the night sky. A plane streaked across above Manhattan, a tiny glimmer disappearing into the clouds, and for some reason my chest tightened. An uneasy feeling crawled up my spine. I pulled out my phone and shot Celeste a message.

Come up to the rooftop, Ive got a surprise for you.

The notification came back red. Blocked.

I blinked at the screen, not believing it, then checked again. Same result. My stomach sank. Right then my friend finally texted back.

Damien, sorry bro. Emergency at home. Couldnt wait. Maybe propose another day?

Another day? Was he kidding me?

I clenched my jaw, staring at the glowing candles I had arranged myself. I waited. Five minutes. Ten. Thirty. An hour. My legs grew restless. The ring box felt like it was burning through my palm. Finally, I gave up.

Dang.

Shes probably downstairs. Ill find her myself, I muttered. Itll still be a surprise.

Celeste would never say no to me anyway. Shed been mine since we were kids. That thought calmed me a little as I walked back down.

But the party was already over. The rooms were empty. Only my mother sat in the living room, holding a photo in her hands. Her shoulders were trembling as she whispered something.

I walked closer, confused. Mom? Whyre you crying? Whose photo is that?

She looked up. Her eyes were swollen, red, wet with grief I couldnt understand. Its me and Celestes mother. I failed her, Damien. I failed both of you. Celestes gone.

Gone? Dont say it like that. Where would she go? Shes probably with her aunt, right? Maybe she slipped out before the party ended.

My mother shook her head slowly, as though every movement cost her. She left, Damien. To France.

France? I repeated, incredulous. A bitter laugh slipped out. Thats all? Mom, you nearly gave me a heart attack. France isnt another world. I can get on a plane tomorrow, meet her there. She promised shed wait for me. You say it like shes never coming back. Whyre you making this sound so final?

Her silence unsettled me more than her words. She lowered her gaze, her thumb brushing across the edge of the photo. If youd listened back then, you wouldnt be surprised now.

What do you mean back then? I snapped, If youd told me earlier, I wouldnt have wasted time setting up candles, buying this ring I opened my palm, showing her the box like proof. Id have gone with her. Id have followed her to the ends of the earth.

Her eyes softened with pity, and it enraged me. Would you, Damien? Or would you have stayed here again chasing shadows?

What the hell is that supposed to mean? My voice rose, but beneath it was fear. Something was wrong. Something I didnt want to admit.

She pressed her lips together, almost like shed said too much. Forget it. You wouldnt understand.

No, tell me. Youre hiding something. What do you mean again? What arent you saying? Mom, look at me!

Her tears brimmed over, spilling down her cheeks. She set the photo down gently, as if afraid it would shatter. That box, she whispered, the one I told you to give Celeste. Do you even remember it?

My heart lurched. The snowy night came rushing backCelestes pale face in the hospital bed, her voice steady as she said goodbye. The unopened box sitting in my drawer, ignored because Ariana kept calling.

My throat tightened. Mom that box you gave me for Celeste what was it really?

She looked up at me then, her eyes glassy but resolute, and gave the answer Id been too blind to prepare for.

It was the token I exchanged with her mother when you two were engaged. Inside was the marriage certificate our families prepared... the one meant to be signed after the ceremony.

For a moment, the world fell out from under me. My ears roared with silence, my pulse crashing like a war drum. The ring slipped from my hand and clattered against the floor.

Celeste hadnt just left for France.

She had ended us. Completely.

And I hadnt even seen it coming.

I sat there staring at my own hands like they werent mine. The longer I looked, the more I realized what Id done with them. I thought Celeste returning the keys, the house, all those thingswas just her throwing a tantrum, punishing me. I never thought it meant shed already made up her mind to leave me.

I laughed bitterly, shaking my head. I really thought I really thought shed never walk away. That no matter how much I messed up, shed still come back. Every time I pushed, she pushed back, but she stayed. I kept thinking, she loves me too much to really leave. God, Im an idiot.

I remembered how I used Ariana, again and again, dangling her in front of Celeste just to spark her jealousy. I wanted her mad, wanted her to fight me, so Id know she still cared. I thought shed slam the door, then open it again like always. I thought it was some twisted game only we knew how to play.

I squeezed my fists, my voice cracking. What did I do? What the hell did I do?

The memories rushed in. Me accusing her of lying about Xander harassing her. Me calling her pathetic for competing with Ariana. Me brushing it off when she saved Ariana in that accident. Me not even checking when heavy crates nearly crushed her. And worstmy own voice echoing in my head, cold and sharp. We dont have any relationship anymore. Even if you die, I wont be at your funeral.

I pressed my palms into my eyes, but the pain in my chest only grew sharper. Breathing hurt. Living hurt.

My phone buzzed nonstop. I picked it up and the screen flooded with messages.

Damien, whats happening? Celeste said at the party shes going to Europe to marry. Thats with you, right?