Betrayed by the Man I Loved, I Took Down His World

Are you absolutely certain about this, Mrs. Herrera? the lawyers voice was careful, almost hesitant. Divorcing Julian now with your seventh anniversary just a week away? And what about the business your father left behind? Its still under his control. Whos going to manage it if you walk away? His family theyve been there for you since your parents passed.

I drew in a sharp breath, gripping the phone tightly. I know, Attorney. Im grateful, I said, forcing calm into my voice even though my chest ached. But go ahead. Prepare the divorce papers. Five days. By then, Ill have someone to take over the company and arrange everything.

Mrs. Herrera

I wont stay married to a man who let our child die, I cut in, my voice trembling. All to save his mistresss baby.

Silence fell on the linethick, suffocating, heavy. Before he could reply, I ended the call.

The click echoed across the quiet room. For a moment, the hum of the air conditioner was the only sound. My knees shook, my heart pounded, and I sank into the chair, burying my face in my hands.

Images flashed behind my closed eyelids: laughter, promises, warmththe illusion of love I had clung to so desperately.

Two weeks ago, I believed I had everything.

I had been overjoyed, holding a tiny pregnancy test in my trembling hands. A faint pink line changed everythingI was going to be a mother again. After the heartbreak of losing our son to kidney failure, hope finally returned.

I remembered standing in front of the mirror, smiling through tears, whispering to myself, Were going to be parents again, Julian. Maybe this time, itll be different.

I had planned a surprise: dinner, candles, his favorite wine. I wanted to see his smile again, the one that had once made me feel safe. But that night, fate had other plans.

I arrived at his office, sonogram photo tucked in my bag, ready to reveal my joy. But just as I reached the door, I froze.

youre still keeping Alyssa, even though your son with Sabrina is already five? a mans voice askedone of Julians friends. What happens if she finds out?

My blood ran ice-cold.

Julians voice followed, calm and controlled. Shell never know. She believes our son died because no kidney was available.

A pause.

But the truth? His tone hardened, sharp and cold. I gave the kidney to my son with Sabrina. Alyssa would never have survived the truth. Shes too fragile.

He continued, unnervingly calm. Its hereditary in our family. Even I needed a transplant when I was a child. My son with Sabrina was dying. I had no choice. I couldnt risk himhes my blood, my true heir.

True heir.

Those words cut deeper than any blade. My son hadnt died because of fate or lack of medicinehe had died because Julian chose someone else. Sabrina. My friend.

He went on, each word like a jagged knife. Besides, I never wanted a child with her. I married her because her father begged me. He was dying and promised me the company if I looked after her. I pitied her. Thats all.

Pity.

The word shattered everythingour vows, our marriage, the life we had built.

I clutched the sonogram in my bag until the paper crumpled beneath my fingers. My knees gave way, and I slid against the wall, biting my lip to suppress the scream clawing its way up.

I couldnt breathe. I couldnt think.

Eventually, I found myself in my car, staring blankly at the city lights, tears blurring everything. I didnt know how long I sat thereminutes, hours, maybe an eternityuntil I realized what I had to do.

That night, I stopped being his wife.

Now, two weeks later, the same hollow ache lingered. I tried to steady my breathing, tried to push it away, but the memory stuck like smoke.

I was wiping my face when the door opened.

Alyssa?

My body froze. His voice.

Julian stepped in, tall, composed, his dark hair neatly styled, cologne drifting faintly in the air. To anyone else, he still seemed perfectsuccessful, calm, devoted. But I could see the monster beneath the mask.

Hey, he said softly, stepping closer. Why are you crying? Whats wrong?

I forced a smile that didnt reach my eyes. Nothing.

He frowned and set his briefcase down. Im sorry I couldnt come home last night. Last-minute meeting at work.

A lie. I knew exactly where he had beenSabrinas condo. My friend, my confidante and the woman who shared his bed.

I didnt reply. Slowly, I stood and faced him.

Here.

He blinked as I removed my wedding ring and set it on the desk between us. The soft metallic clink echoed like the final closing of a door.

What is this? His brow furrowed.

Im having the divorce papers prepared, I said, my voice calm even as my hands trembled. Five days, Julian. We end this, and we part ways.

Im having the divorce papers drawn up, I said, my voice steady even though my hands trembled. Five days, Julian. Thats when this ends.

He blinked at me, disbelief twisting his features. What are you talking about? His voice rose in incredulity, edged with a mocking laugh. Five days? Thats our anniversary, Alyssa. Didnt we agree to celebrate it, like we always do?

I laughed, but it was hollow, bitter, and empty. Celebrate? Like the past five years when you never showed up? When you sent flowers from some distant florist while you were out partying for work?

His jaw tightened, and for a moment, he just stared.

I pressed on, the words tumbling out before I could stop them. I always told myself it was business. That you were busy keeping Fathers company running, thats why you were late, or didnt call, or forgot. I made excuses for every missed dinner, every unanswered text. I believed in you. But now now I see the truth. Youve been spending more time with Sabrina than with me.

He ran a hand through his hair, irritation flashing in his eyes. Alyssa, this is ridiculous. Youre angry, fineI get it. But dont drag divorce into this. I can fix it. Youre blowing this out of proportion. And Sabrina? Shes my secretaryyou told me to hire her! Why are you making her the enemy?

I should bring her into this, I snapped, my voice sharp. Shes been around us from the start. Supposed to be my best friend, wasnt she? And yet shes the one you go home to. Youve been lying to me, both of you.

He chuckled, low and cold, dismissive. So, this is about jealousy?

No, I whispered, my chest aching. Im done. I dont love you anymore, Julian. Thats why were divorcing.

His laugh grew louder, crueler this time, as he stepped closer. Divorce me? Youre serious? His eyes darkened, hardening. You cant do that. Where would you go? Youre an orphan, Alyssa. You have nothing without me. Do you expect me to just give you money to walk away?

My fists clenched. I dont want your money.

He snorted, pressing the wedding ring back into my palm. Ridiculous, he muttered. Then he pulled a sleek black card from his wallet and dropped it onto the table. Herebuy something nice. Much better than whining about divorce.

I laughed, but it came out jagged, broken. You really think money fixes everything?

Already stepping back, he looked bored. I wont be home later. Meeting

Before he could finish, my palm struck his cheek. The sound cracked through the room like lightning.

For a heartbeat, everything froze.

Then his expression shiftedshock giving way to fury. His hand shot out, and for the first time, Julian slapped me back. I stumbled, cheek stinging, humiliation and pain burning through me.

Whats wrong with you? he shouted, chest heaving.

A small voice interrupted.

Bad!

We both turned. Little Max stood in the doorway, clutching a tiny toy car, big brown eyesJulians eyeswide and confused. Why are you hitting Daddy?

My stomach twisted. I had always let the child call Julian Daddy because Sabrina said his father didnt want him, claiming it was from a one-night mistake. I had pitied him, loved him quietly, thinking I was helping a friends child. Now, I realized the cruel truth. He wasnt fatherless. He was Julians son.

Before I could react, Sabrinas voice floated from the hall. Oh sorry.

She stepped into view, face sweet, concern painted on, tone dripping with practiced innocence. Bad timing, I guess? Max wanted to visit. He misses everyone but maybe we should go.

No, Julian snapped, brushing past me. Were going out. Without her. He shot me a sharp glare. How dare you even think about divorce?

Sabrina raised a hand to her chest, feigning shock. Alyssa, why would you do this? Did something happen?

Dont act innocent, I hissed.

She blinked, pretending to be clueless. Did Julian upset you again? Should I scold him?

Her tone made my stomach churn. I had trusted her with everythingevery secret, every hurtand she had been smiling while betraying me all along.

Stop pretending, I spat. You know exactly why Im leaving.

Sabrina tilted her head, mock curiosity in her eyes. Oh is this about that guy you mentioned?

What? Julians head snapped toward me. What guy?

I froze. Is she using the cheating card against me, even though its not real?

Wait, he growled, glaring. Are you cheating on me?

I stared at him, disbelief burning. Youre accusing me?

Sabrina raised her hands innocently. No, no, she didnt

Shut up! I snapped, voice breaking. You traitor! That isnt true!

Julians face darkened. He grabbed my arm roughly, pulling me toward our room. So you want a divorce to cheat? Is that it?

Let go! I struggled, but his grip only tightened.

No. Not until you come to your senses.

He shoved me inside and slammed the door. The lock clicked into place. Then I heard their footsteps, fadingthe front door closing behind Julian, Sabrina, and their son.

The silence that followed was suffocating.

I sank to the floor, chest heaving, palms trembling. My reflection in the mirror looked like someone elsebroken, betrayed, bleeding from the inside.

Tears fell freely as I pressed a hand to my stomach. Im sorry, baby, I whispered. But I have to let you go. Your father doesnt want you.

Outside, their car roared to life, fading into the night. I was left alone, locked in that empty house, clutching my belly, whispering for strength.

Five days, I murmured, closing my eyes. Just five days then Ill be free.

The next morning, a gentle knocking stirred me awake. My eyes were puffy from crying through the night, my throat raw from screaming into the silence of my locked room. I didnt want to open the door, not even a crackbut then I heard her voice.

Alyssa its me.

Sabrina.

My body froze instantly.

The door creaked, and she stepped inmy so-called best friend, the woman who had betrayed me in the most unforgivable way. Her eyes were red, rimmed with tears, though I didnt believe a word of it. Without asking, she crossed the room and hugged me tightly, pressing her cheek to mine.

Im sorry, she murmured, voice soft against my shoulder. I never meant for it to happen. Things they just got out of hand.

I stiffened, hands falling to my sides. Got out of hand? I repeated, bitterness cutting through my voice as I stepped back.

Yes, she hurried on. I thought you were talking about Raphaelthats all. Youd mentioned him before, your first love. I assumed maybe you had reconciled, and thats why you were talking about divorce with Julian.

I stared at her, incredulous. Youre serious? I raised my voice. Thats your excuse? You thought I wanted a divorce because of Raphael? Not because youve been sleeping with my husband for years?

Her lips parted in feigned offense. Of course not! Youre my best friend, Dani. I would never

The sharp sting of my hand against her cheek cut her off.

Her head snapped sideways, palm flying to her face. What?

Do you think Id be blind? I whispered, voice trembling with fury and heartbreak. Youve been sleeping with my husband, Sabrina. And Maxyour sonis his child, isnt he?

For a heartbeat, she froze, her expression an act of innocence. Then it slipped. Her lips twisted into a faint, mocking smile, and a quiet laugh escaped her.

Oh, God, she said, shaking her head. Im tired of pretending. Her tone dripped with venomous amusement as she locked eyes with me. Good to know you finally caught on.

My stomach churned, but I didnt flinch.

So whats next? she continued, smirking. Are you finally going to leave him?

I swallowed hard, fighting back tears. He wont divorce me, I said deliberately. So youd better do something about it.

Sabrina tilted her head, chuckling. Dont worry. I will. Just make sure you actually go through with it.

Fine. I slipped my wedding ring off, holding it up as it caught the morning sunlight. Here. Wear it. Enjoy it. Youve already taken everything else.

She hesitated before taking it, her smirk softening into a playful pout. Well thanks, Alyssa. Really, thank you for giving me your husband, she murmured. I brushed past her without answering.

As I moved toward the living room, a small voice called out.

Auntie Dani!

It was Max, clutching a toy car, his face lighting up when he saw me. Look! Daddy fixed it!

For a fleeting second, I froze. I had once adored this boy. I had held him, fed him, read him bedtime stories when Sabrina was too busy pretending to work. He had called me Auntie so sweetly that I had almost forgotten my own loss.

But now every time I saw him, all I felt was betrayal.

Im busy, Max, I said softly.

No! Please, Auntie! Look, it moves now! He pressed the toy toward me eagerly.

I stepped back, shaking my head. Not now, Max.

He followed me, tugging at my dress. Please, Auntie! Just look!

Something inside me snapped. My voice cracked as I pushed him away. I said Im busy!

He stumbled. I didnt catch him in time. He fell, the toy shattering beside him, his tiny body trembling as sobs ripped from his chest.

Sabrina burst into the room, horror written across her face. What did you do?!

It was an accident, I said quickly. But she was already scooping him up, glaring at me as if I were a monster.

Whats going on? Julians voice boomed from the doorway, eyes darting between me and the crying child, face hardening.

Really, Alyssa? he hissed. This is why you dont deserve to be a mother. You cant even care for a child properly.

I felt my throat constrict.

This, he said, gesturing to Max, is why well never have another child. Im giving my heir to him. Hell be adopted officially. He deserves it more than you ever could.

I swallowed the lump in my throat, voice quiet, almost serene. Do what you must.

He blinked, thrown by my calm. Thats it? You dont care? Is that true? Are you seeing another man?

What? I whispered, stunned.

He looked to Sabrina. She mentioned a guy. Who is it?

Sabrina raised her hands innocently. Julian, stop. Dont hurt her. Remember, shes my best friend.

He glared between us, jaw tight, then sighed. Be thankful Sabrinas considerate, Alyssa. Now, apologize to Max.

I clenched my fists but couldnt bear another fight. I knelt before the boy, voice trembling. Im sorry, Max. I didnt mean to scare you.

He sniffled, nodding. Its okay, Auntie. Can we play later?

Sure, I said softly. Well play later.

But I knew there wouldnt be a later.

Once in my room, I locked the door and collapsed onto the bed, mind spinning, heart breaking all over again.

Raphael.

The name echoed in my thoughts. The man I had loved once. The one I had left for Julian because my father had insisted I marry into a powerful family to protect me.

Maybe Sabrinas gossip about him wasnt useless after all. Maybe I could use it.

Hands trembling, I pulled out my phone and scrolled to his name: Raphael Mendoza. My pulse raced as I tapped it.

The line rang once twice then

Hello? His voice, familiar and gentle, filled my ear.

Its me, I whispered. Alyssa.

A pause. Alyssa? His tone was stunned. After all this time

I took a shaky breath. Are you still single?

He laughed softly, surprised. I yeah, I guess.

Good, I said, voice wavering but steadying. Because I need to ask you something important.

What is it?

I closed my eyes, heart hammering. Do you want to marry me?

The line went silent, stretching long enough for me to hear the thudding of my own heart. Then, a soft laughfamiliar, disbelieving, and tinged with amusementcut through the quiet.

Marry you now? Raphaels voice was low, edged with teasing. After all these years, after you broke my heart, Alyssa? Seven years, and here you are. What happened to that perfect husband of yoursJulian?

I swallowed hard, staring at my reflection in the mirror. Pale, hollow-eyed the woman staring back at me was barely recognizable. He betrayed me, I admitted, my voice trembling but carrying the weight of truth. He killed our son. I cant live with him any longer.

Another silence fell. Then, a quiet sigh.

Alyssa

Forget it, I said quickly, my throat tight. If youve moved onif youre married, happy thats fine. I shouldnt have called.

I was about to hang up when his voice stopped me, calm and steady, full of warmth I hadnt heard in years.

Who says I dont love you? he murmured. Seven years didnt change that. You mightve hurt me back then, but I never stopped caring. If this is really what you want, then finelets do it. Ill come get you, and well marry.

I froze, shock and disbelief mingling with something I hadnt felt in agesa flicker of hope, or maybe madness, I couldnt tell.

Do you need me to do anything else? he asked softly.

Nothing, I whispered, voice barely audible. Just dont let me regret reaching out to you.

And then, before he could speak again, I hung up.

I stared at the phone in my hand, chest heaving, the air around me heavy and suffocating, yet lighter somehow. Thats better. After all, Raphael had once been my whole world.

I sank to the edge of the bed, memories flooding backthe way his laugh had echoed in empty classrooms, the brush of his hand under the bleachers, the promises whispered in the dark about a future we would share.

High school sweethearts, we had beentwo dreamers who thought love could conquer everything. He had even saved enough to buy a simple ring, cheap but meaningful. We had planned to marry after college.

But life had other plans.

When my father fell ill, everything crumbled. His company teetered on the edge of ruin. Julians father offered helpbut the price was my hand in marriage to Julian.

Raphael begged me not to go through with it. He promised wed find a way, that wed make it work. But I was young, scared, and desperate. I believed marrying Julian would keep me safe.

For a time, I tried to convince myself I was happy. I learned to love himor so I thought. Now, in retrospect, it had all been a lie woven so carefully it had almost fooled me.

I shook myself from the memories and stood abruptly. I couldnt stay in this house any longernot amidst walls filled with false memories.

I opened the closet and began packing slowly, piece by piece. Dresses. Shoes. Photographs. Each item felt heavier than the last, weighted with betrayal. My wedding gown hung at the far end, wrapped in plastic. I stared at it for a long moment before yanking it down.

By the time I finished, my hands trembled. I gathered everything Julian had given megifts, jewelry, lettersand carried it to the backyard. The night air bit at my skin as I struck a match, letting the flame consume it all.

The gold bracelet he had clasped around my wrist melted black in the fire. I watched as every last token of us turned to ash, leaving nothing but emptiness.

The doorbell rang just as I stepped back inside.

Frowning, I wiped my tears and opened the door. A man stood there holding a box.

Delivery for Mrs. Julian Herrera, he said, handing it over.

I didnt order anything, I muttered.

Its prepaid, he replied, then left before I could ask more.

Curious, I opened it. Inside was a limited-edition Audrey Hepburn figurineelegant, poised, delicate. My breath caught. I had loved collecting them. Julian had teased me endlessly for it.

For a brief moment, I thoughtperhaps it was an apology. Maybe he remembered something that mattered.

Then I heard footsteps behind me.

Dont touch that.

I turned. Julian stood there, impeccably dressed, his gaze cold. He snatched the box from my hands.

Its for Sabrinas birthday, he said flatly.

What? I whispered.

Ill be away for a few days. Business trip, he added.

I let out a bitter laugh. Of course. Business trip.

Alyssa, come on, he sighed, rubbing his temple. Are you upset again? Fine, Im sorry. He pulled something small from his pocketa cheap imitation of the figurineand handed it to me. Here. To make it up to you.

The fake one. Of course.

He leaned in to kiss me, but I turned away. Never mind, he muttered, straightening. Do whatever you want.

Before I could respond, frantic knocking shook the front door. Then a voice.

Julian! Help! Please! Somethings wrong!

Sabrina.

Julians expression changed instantly, panic flashing across his face. What happened?

Its Max, she sobbed. Hes sick! Please, come quickly!

And just like that, he was gone.

I remained, staring at the empty doorway. Silence pressed in like a heavy fog. Forgotten. Ignored. Cast aside.

I pressed a trembling hand to my stomach. The tiny life growing inside me didnt deserve this.

Tears blurred my vision. Im sorry, baby but I have to let you go. Your father doesnt want you.

Later that night, I went to the hospital. My hands shook as I signed the papers, the nurses words barely registering over the torrent of tears.

Are you sure about this procedure, maam?

Yes, I whispered, voice breaking. Im certain.

As the anesthesia began to take hold, the last thing I murmured was a promise to the child I would never meet:

Ill find peace even if I have to burn everything to get it.

The hospital smelled of antiseptic and quiet emptiness. I stepped out clutching a small white envelope, the paper still warm from the printer. Certificate of Abortion. The words felt like stones in my chest, final, merciless, unforgiving.

At the nurses station, a gentle voice offered me a small sealed box. We thought you might like to have something, she said softly. Inside lay a delicate silver braceletthe one I had bought weeks ago, engraved with the name Liam. My little boy who would never breathe, never cry, never have a chance at life.

The cab ride home was a blur. City lights streaked past, horns and sirens echoing in a distant, unreal hum. Every sound felt alien, disconnected from the storm inside me. When I arrived, I set the box down on the bed. Slowly, deliberately, I opened my drawer and gathered every trace of Julian: the marriage certificate, our ultrasound photos, the wedding ring he had slipped onto my finger, the dried rose from our first anniversary, even the letter my father had written before he died, begging Julian to care for me.

One by one, I placed each item in the box. My fingers trembled, but my hands were steady enough to close the lid. This is it, I whispered. This is the end of us.

As I stepped out of my room, laughter drifted from the living roombright, careless, jarring. Sabrina and little Max were there, both smiling as they packed piles of beach clothes into their suitcases. Maxs face lit up when he saw me.

Auntie Alyssa! he squealed, waving a toy car. Come on! Were going on a cruise! Youre coming too, right?

I froze, hand tightening around the box. Before I could answer, Julian appeared in the hallway, adjusting his watch as if he were already halfway out the door.

No, he said sharply. Shes not coming. Someone has to stay behind to manage the house. Alyssa will do that. He didnt spare me a glance.

Sabrina laughed, her tone syrupy, eyes sharp. Oh, you know how these business trips are. I cant let Julian travel alone as his secretary, and for Max well, you wouldnt keep up. Hes mischievous, darling. You should rest.

I looked at both of them, and for the first time, I felt neither hurt nor rage. Only a chilling, quiet resolve. Okay, I said simply, setting the box on the counter. Have fun.

Both blinked, surprised by the absence of reaction.

Julian frowned, irritation flashing. Why arent you arguing? Why arent you pleading? Why dont you care?

I turned to him, calm but cutting. What do you want me to say, Julian? That Ill cry and scream again? You said its a business trip, right? Then Im trying to understand.

He scoffed, visibly unsettled.

Besides, I added evenly, Ill be leaving soon, too.

His head jerked up. Leaving? What do you mean leaving? Where are you going?

To the province, I said, meeting his gaze steadily. To visit my fathers grave. Its their death anniversaryright after ours. Dont you remember?

Guilt flickered across his face, quickly masked. He sighed, attempting a conciliatory tone. Alyssa, I know Ive been busy but Ill follow after the cruise. Well visit your parents together.

I allowed a faint, distant smile. Sure.

He looked relieved, as if a crisis had been averted. He rifled through his briefcase and pulled out a few documents. Could you sign these? Just minor company papers, nothing important.

I took them without a word. I knew what they really wereauthorization forms, meant to transfer some of my shares back to him. But days ago, I had already secured everything through my lawyer, moving the assets into a trust he couldnt touch.

I signed smoothly, calmly, my hand steady. He smiled, oblivious to the fact that the game was already over.

Thanks, he said, leaning in to press a kiss to my forehead. Ill see you soon, Alyssa. Be careful.

I nodded. I will. You too.

As they prepared to leave, Sabrina stepped close, her smile sweet and poisonous. Goodbye, Dani, she purred. When we get back, we should talkclear the air. But maybe you should think about leaving in the meantime. Its best for everyone.

I met her gaze evenly, lips curving into a faint, chilling smile. Dont worry, I said softly, with calm certainty. When you return, Ill make sure Julian regrets every single thing he ever did to me.

Her smile faltered for a split second. Then she grabbed Maxs hand, forcing a laugh. Well see, Dani. Take care!

And just like that, they were gone, laughing hand in hand as if they hadnt just destroyed every trace of what I had held dear.

I waited until the cars engine faded completely. Then I walked slowly through the empty house, taking one last look at the space that had never felt like mine.

The portraits on the walls mocked meour wedding photo, family gatherings, fake smiles now twisted and sinister. I moved to the center of the living room and placed the wooden box on the coffee table. Everythingmy past, my heartbreak, my losses, my lovewas contained within.

I wrote a note and laid it atop the box: Happy anniversary, ex-husband. Goodbye.

A black limousine rolled up moments later. I straightened my blouse, wiped the last of my tears, and stepped outside.

Raphael leaned against the car casually, a faint, confident smile tugging at his lips. Older, sharper, but still with that same calm warmth in his eyes.

Ready? he asked.

I nodded, gripping the door handle. Ready.

As the limousine pulled away from the house I had once called home, I didnt look back. My fist clenched, and I swore silently: one day, they would regret everything they had done to me.

Julian's POV

The sun glimmered against the waves, painting gold streaks across the endless blue. Laughter echoed around the deck as Max ran toward me, his little arms stretching out, his cheeks flushed from the sea breeze.

Daddy! he called, clutching a melting ice cream cone. Are we gonna be happy forever? You, me, and Mommy?

I smiled faintly, ruffling his hair as he leaned against my leg. Of course, I said, forcing my voice to sound steady. From now on, we dont have to hide anymore. Everyone will know Im your real dad.

His eyes widened, bright with confusion. Really? But what about Auntie Alyssa? he asked softly. Isnt she your wife? How can Mommy be if you already have her?

Before I could answer, Sabrina appeared, her arm snaking around my shoulder possessively. Dont worry about that, sweetheart, she said, smiling down at Max. Auntie Alyssa wont be around anymore. Itll be just us from now on.

Max frowned, shaking his head. But Auntie Alyssa is nice. She always gives me cookies and plays with me.

The sweetness of his innocence cut through me.

Sabrinas smile hardened. No, baby. Shes not nice. Shes bad. She doesnt love Daddy the way I do.

Enough, Sabrina, I said sharply, turning to her. Dont say things like that to a child.

She pouted, crossing her arms. Im just being honest. You said to yourself shes nothing to you anymore. Why are you suddenly defending her?

I sighed and pinched the bridge of my nose. Because I dont want Max to grow up hating people. Let him be a child.

Sabrinas jaw tightened, but before she could speak, Max started cryingloud, heartbreaking sobs that sliced through the moment.

Daddy, please dont fight with Mommy, he wailed.

Hey, hey I knelt beside him, pulling him close. Its okay, buddy. Were not fighting, alright? Come on, lets get some rest.

I carried him to the cabin, humming softly until his breathing evened out and he finally fell asleep. But even then, I couldnt calm the storm inside me.

When I stepped out into the dimly lit hallway, I found Sabrina sitting on the couch, sipping wine, her eyes following me with quiet suspicion.

Who were you calling? she asked as I lifted my phone.

I hesitated. Alyssa.

Her voice dropped. Youre still calling her?

Its not what you think, I said quickly, forcing a tired laugh. Shes still legally my wife. The papers arent finalized. And besides, I need her signature for the business transition.

Sabrina scoffed, setting her glass down hard. So thats all she is now? A signature? A contract?

Yes, I lied. Thats all.

Her lips twisted into a bitter smile. Funny. Because you say that every time, yet somehow you still find reasons to talk about her. To check on her. To call her.

Sabrina

She stood abruptly, fury flashing across her face. You cant have both of us, Julian! Its me or her. You have a child with me now. Do you want him to live in the shadows forever?

I rubbed my temples, the weight of her words pressing against my chest. Alright, I murmured. Im sorry. Youre right. I shouldnt have called. I just wanted to make sure things are settled.

Her anger softened at my tone. She took a step closer and placed her hands on my chest. Then promise me youll stop thinking about her.

I forced a nod. I promise.

She smiled againsoft, satisfiedand kissed me. I kissed her back out of habit, not passion. Later that night, when she fell asleep beside me, her hand draped over my chest, I stared up at the ceiling, my mind far from the gentle sway of the cruise ship.

The dream came out of nowhere.

Alyssastanding on a cliff, the wind tangling her hair, her eyes full of tears. She was calling my name, her voice breaking through the sound of the waves. I ran toward her, but every step only pushed her farther away. Then, before I could reach her, she turned and vanished into the dark sea.

I woke up with a start, drenched in sweat.

The moonlight spilled through the window, pale and cold. I turned to my sideSabrina was still asleep, her breathing steady. Quietly, I slipped out of bed, grabbed my phone, and stepped onto the balcony.

The ocean stretched endlessly below, but all I could think about was her.

I dialed her number once. No answer. Twice. Still nothing.

With each unanswered call, my heart pounded harder.

By the fifth attempt, panic clawed at me. I called the house, and the butler answered groggily.

Sir?

Is Alyssa home? I asked.

There was a pause. No, sir. She hasnt returned since yesterday. We thought she was with you.

My fingers went numb. What do you mean she hasnt come home? Did she leave a message? Anything?

N-none, sir. The maids said she packed a few things this morning and left.

My mind spun. Left? I repeated, my voice dropping low. Where?

I dont know, sir.

The line went dead.

Desperate, I searched for another numberthe caretaker of her fathers grave. If she had gone to the province, she wouldve visited him first like what we talked about. My hands trembled as I pressed the call button.

Hello? a groggy voice answered.

This is Julian, I said quickly. Has Alyssa arrived there today?

There was silence, then confusion. Miss Alyssa? No, sir. She didnt come today. She hasnt been here in a long while.

The phone slipped from my fingers and clattered onto the floor.