I put on another mans suit and saved Riley from being left at the altar.

For three years, I thought our marriage meant something.

Then her ex came back sick and weak, and she ran to him without even looking at me.

Now she cannot remember signing our divorce papers.

She also has no idea that in seven days I will leave her for good.


"Lucas, are you really going to divorce Riley and study abroad?"

In the quiet living room, Lucas looked at Mrs. Sullivan's shocked face across from him and nodded.

"Yes, Mrs. Sullivan. As you know, I wasn't the one who was supposed to marry her in the first place. For Riley, I was just an unexpected stand-in, a substitute when the real groom didn't show up. Now that he's back, she's been so happy lately. It's time for me to go."

Outside, a light snow was falling, creating a beautiful winter scene.

He smiled lightly. "Studying abroad has always been my dream anyway."

Mrs. Sullivan looked at the young man before her, remembering Riley's wedding three years ago. Tristan, who was supposed to be the groom, had fled abroad at the last minute.

Just as Riley stood awkwardly on stage, red-eyed and unsure what to do, Lucas had put on an ill-fitting suit and slowly walked up.

He apologetically took the microphone and addressed all the guests: "I'm so sorry, there was traffic on the way. I'm late."

With that act, he had saved Riley's dignity and the Sullivan family's reputation.

Mrs. Sullivan let out a long sigh, then asked uncertainly, "Will Riley agree to the divorce?"

Lucas shook his head with a smile. "I already got her to sign the divorce papers."

Two weeks ago, he had given her the divorce agreement. At the time, Riley was in a rush to finish work and meet Tristan. She had signed without even looking and left.

Now, in just seven more days, he would be able to get the official divorce certificate. He would be free.

After all, the Sullivan family had a three-generation military background and couldn't go abroad.

So once he left the country, he and Riley would never have to see each other again.

Just as Mrs. Sullivan was about to speak, a gentle female voice came from behind them.

"Lucas, what are you chatting about with Mom?"

Lucas turned around to see Riley, whom he hadn't seen in days, walking towards them in a black evening gown that occasionally revealed her long legs.

"...Riley."

Seeing her daughter approach, Mrs. Sullivan was about to step forward to scold her.

"Why are you here?"

With a mix of surprise and reassurance, Lucas stood up, giving Mrs. Sullivan a pleading look to interrupt her.

"I missed you, so I came by to pick you up," Riley said, her eyes looking a bit guilty. In truth, she had come on purpose after finding out Lucas's whereabouts.

After saying goodbye to the worried Mrs. Sullivan, the couple took their bags and left the Sullivan family home.

On the way back, heavy rain pounded on the car windows, while inside was completely silent.

Riley remained quiet for a long time before finally speaking.

"Lucas."

"Tristan and I are really over. He just got back to the country and had heart surgery a few years ago, so his health isn't good. As an old... friend, I just went to help him get settled. I hope you can understand."

Lucas stared out the rain-blurred window and nodded.