He said he preferred women who were understanding.
It was infuriating. That ring was meant for us, carefully chosen and designed by a jeweler over six months according to my specifications.
How could she just take it?
But he didn't seem to grasp my anger, instead brushing off my hand with impatience. "Is it really worth getting so worked up over? It's not like I'm not buying you another one."
"Can't you stop being so sensitive? We're getting married; there's no chance for me and her. Isn't that enough?"
We were just never on the same page.
After that, we went through a long period of cold silence.
It wasn't always like this.
I used to dread fighting with him. Every argument felt like the world was collapsing, making my heart race and leaving me anxious and sleepless.
I'd even wait until he woke up the next day to apologize, afraid to disturb his rest.
He'd act like he already knew everything, giving me half-hearted kisses and hugs, just enough to make me behave.
It was always like this.
My emotions and thoughts were completely under his control.
After all, I was the one who loved him so deeply and fought for this relationship.
I had to be careful with everything I said and did, terrified he might break up with me if I upset him.
But for an important occasion like trying on wedding dresses, he was the one who set the date.
I knew it meant a lot for him to make time for this, so I agreed and even sent him a few cute emojis.
In reality, I didn't feel the excitement I'd imagined. There was more calm and resignation.
But being stood up again still hurt.
Aurora, you really did this to yourself!
You fell for his empty promises once more.
After leaving the bridal shop, I went to a photo studio and had several sets of pictures taken, from school uniforms to wedding gowns, even though I was the only one in them.
It was my way of saying goodbye to the past.
As for everything related to Jackson, I've given up.
This was just my way of giving my youth a perfect ending.
When I got home, it was already late.
Jackson still hadn't come back, and seeing my phone with no new messages, I couldn't help but laugh bitterly at myself.
After a shower, I went to the spare room to sleep. As I was drifting off, I felt a pair of large hands roaming over me, and the cold made me jolt awake.
I looked up to find Jackson, smelling of alcohol, his face flushed, and his shirt wide open.
"Darling, my head is pounding."