With a bitter smile tugging at the corners of my mouth, I went to a print shop to print out the divorce papers, then returned to the house that no longer felt like home.
The next morning, Matthew clung to me from behind as I woke up, acting clingy and playful, he said, "Miranda, today is our wedding anniversary. I've prepared a surprise for you."
"Really? I wonder what you've planned this year." I curled my lips slightly, my eyes reflecting indifference and disinterest.
Normally attuned to the slightest change in my emotions, Matthew remained oblivious and continued speaking excitedly.
Before heading out, he helped me put on my shoes and change clothes, just as he always did, treating me like a child. I used to refuse this attentiveness countless times, but he remained stubborn, smiling and saying he felt happy serving his wife.
He blindfolded me and guided me to an estate. When I opened my eyes, a sea of red roses burned into my sight.
Holding me tightly, he said passionately, "My love, I remember you said your childhood dream was to have a rose castle and live in it like a princess. I've made that dream come true for you now. You're the princess and I'll be your knight, protecting you forever."
I hadn't expected him to fulfill something I mentioned casually. My nose tingled and tears welled in my eyes, my heart twisting in pain.
Matthew, how can you look at me with such loving eyes while betraying me? How can you still care for me so attentively? It only makes the pain cut deeper.
"Don't cry, are you unhappy?" Seeing my tears, Matthew panicked, cupping my face gently and wiping them away.
"No, I'm crying from joy." I shook my head lightly, pulling him along as we strolled through the estate, walking among the flowers. Together, we looked as perfect as a fairytale couple.
In the heart of the rose garden, he carefully placed a pink diamond-carved rose in my hand and said, "A rose that will bloom forever, just like our love, lasting until the end of life."
I gazed at the exquisite pink diamond, then at the deep love in his eyes, resisting the urge to ask, is that true?
That evening, we sat on a hillside, watching brilliant fireworks light up the sky. But he seemed distracted, glancing at his phone now and then. I pretended not to notice and focused on the fireworks instead. They were grand yet fleeting, much like my marriage to Matthew.