Chapter 1Decade-Long Love, One-Day Betrayal

I poured ten years into Gaylen's life.

I personally guided him from a broke student to the CEO of a top corporation.

Nearing New Year's Eve, I discovered I was pregnant.

I carefully wrapped a bouquet of red roses, tucking the positive pregnancy test inside. Tonight, I planned to propose to him.

I never imagined I'd witness his betrayal with my own eyes.

The girl huddled in Gaylen's arms, sobbing plaintively.

"I don't want to sneak around with you anymore. I want to be your wife. That old woman doesn't deserve you."

Gaylen playfully tapped Chloe's nose, his gaze full of doting affection.

"Yes, my future Mrs. Gaylen."

The roses slipped from my hand, falling to the ground.

Gaylen turned, seeing me through a blur of tears.

I covered my face and spun away, tears streaming between my fingers.

Back at the apartment, my stomach churned, and I wretched miserably over the trash can.

A cold dread spread through my limbs as a pair of black leather shoes entered my vision.

Gaylen gently patted my back, instinctively reaching for the antacids.

"Stomach bothering you again?"

The meticulously prepared candlelight dinner I'd set on the table now sat cold.

I pulled away from Gaylen's touch and headed for the bathroom.

The tiled walls were covered with silly big-headed photos, snapshots of Gaylen's and my ten years together.

He, boyish and naive, slowly matured.

I, already mature, slowly grew weary.

I turned on the faucet, letting the rushing water mask my fragile sobs.

After a long while, I composed myself.

Gaylen was busy in the kitchen, and a comforting aroma of home-cooked food filled the apartment.

When adults cheat, there’s often an unspoken understanding. No need for screaming and shouting.

A steaming bowl of mushroom soup was placed in front of me.

There was no guilt in Gaylen's eyes, only the calm composure of a powerful man.

The air hung heavy with unspoken words.

I instinctively recoiled, moving to retreat to my room.

Gaylen was quicker, catching my hand and sighing with feigned resignation.

"She's so innocent and sweet, just like how you used to feel about me."

"I promise I'm just playing around with her."

"I'll never forget the help and kindness you've given me."

Ultimately, the Gaylen who'd tearfully promised to love me forever in the dead of night was long gone.

The unspoken cold war between us dragged on for days.

During this time, the doctor called to tell me that my body was weak, and I might not be able to handle the rigors of pregnancy.

But when he was younger, Gaylen had always wanted me to have his child.

This baby, I thought, could have been the turning point for our relationship.

Restless and upset, I decided to visit the office to inspect some work.

And, if possible, find a chance to talk to Gaylen.

The moment I stepped into the office, the bustling, chattering employees instantly fell silent.

Chloe, the junior assistant, was handing out coffees. She smirked at me.

"Rhiannon, would you like a cup?"

The coffee sleeve, emblazoned with a photo of Gaylen and me standing side-by-side, was a jarring sight.

My nails dug into my palms, but I smiled sweetly.

"Sure."

She held up the last cup, frowning in feigned difficulty.

"But Rhiannon, at your age, you probably don't need to stay up late, do you? Why don't we leave the coffee for the younger staff who actually need it."

Suppressed snickers rippled through the office.

Before I could react, Gaylen appeared, his voice sharp and cold.

"Chloe, stop messing around."

It was a reprimand, sure, but I didn't miss the soft, doting look in Gaylen's eyes.

Pouting, Chloe defiantly stuck out her tongue and ducked behind Gaylen.

Gaylen strode towards me, taking the bag from my hand.

"What brings you to the office today?"

I casually picked up a coffee from the table, swirling it, feigning indifference.

"Just came to let you know that Chloe is fired."