So that was it.
Love had died a long time ago. I was just too blind to notice.
I sucked in a sharp breath, straightened up and forced a smile.
“Well, congratulations. Becoming the next Mrs. Marks is just around the corner.”
“But that gown is mine. Take it off,” I said coldly.
I lunged to grab it, but before I could even touch her, one of her bodyguards—assigned by Colin—kicked me.The force knocked me flat. Pain exploded in my gut. I could feel everything twisting, shifting like my organs had been slammed out of place.
Piper picked up a pair of scissors. Her tone was gleeful as she traced the blade over the silk.
“Colin said no matter what I do, he’ll clean up my mess.”
The sharp edge tore through delicate lace, slashed through soft silk. With each cut, she shredded the last gift my mother had ever given me.
I just lay there, watching the pieces flutter down like snowflakes.
Even my hatred felt dull now—numbed by the weight of everything.
Piper strutted off, leaving nothing but wreckage in her wake.
I dragged myself home… or rather used to be.
Once I got there, I tore open every drawer and closet, yanked out every gift Colin had ever given me—jewelry, designer bags, stuffed animals.
One by one, I threw them all in the trash.
Behind me, I heard footsteps approaching.
Familiar ones.
###Chapter 6
Colin paused at the door. “What did you throw away?”
I didn’t even look at him.
“Just some garbage I should’ve gotten rid of long ago.”
He didn’t seem to care. As if suddenly remembering something, he added casually, “I heard Piper accidentally damaged the wedding dress. But don’t worry. I’ve asked the designer to rush a new one. It’ll be ready in time for the ceremony.”
He slung his jacket over one shoulder.
“Remember, tomorrow night’s the gala at my house. Don’t be late. I’ve got work, so I’m not coming home tonight.”
He grabbed his keys and left. Not once did he glance at the overflowing trash bin behind me—filled with everything he’d ever given me.
The next night, 8:00 PM.
I arrived at the Marks Family’s hotel alone.
The moment I stepped into the garden, I saw them.
Colin and Piper.
Dressed in matching custom couture, bathed in warm lawn lights like royalty.
Mrs. Marks’s face twisted the moment she saw me.
Her smile dropped like a cracked mask.
She wore the Bulgari necklace Piper had gifted her and her eyes ran over me with undisguised disdain.