Chapter 2My Husband’s Yacht Proposal Backfired

I let myself into the penthouse, the weight of my designer bag heavy on my shoulder.

The living room lights were dimmed, and Damian was sitting on the sofa, seemingly waiting for me.

The moment I stepped in, he stood up, wearing that practiced, gentle smile that used to make me feel safe.

"You’re back? How was the game? Did the cards love you tonight?"

I didn't answer. I walked straight to the marble coffee table and dropped the thick envelope of cash I’d collected from the club. It landed with a heavy, satisfying thud.

"Card gods were on my side," I said, looking him dead in the eye. "I guess the old saying is true. Lucky in cards, unlucky in love. Though, looking at my bank account, I’d say I’m doing just fine."

Damian’s smile flickered, then held. "What’s that supposed to mean? You’re acting strange."

"Strange?"

I pulled out my phone, unlocked it, and pulled up the screenshot I’d taken of his 'forever' moment. I turned the screen toward him.

The yacht. The diamond. His knee on the deck. Kayla’s staged, virginal surprise. It was all there, vivid and disgusting.

"Damian, do you want to explain this 'game' to me?"

The color drained from his face so fast it was almost cinematic. His eyes darted around the room, looking for an exit that didn't exist.

"Nina, listen, I can explain... it’s... it was a joke. A prank for the guys. The 'Wolf Pack' went too far, you know how they are when they drink..."

"I don't want the script, Damian."

I cut him off and tucked my phone away. My voice was a flatline.

"Tomorrow morning, bring Kayla here. To our home. We’re going to have a conversation."

Damian froze. He took a tentative step toward me, reaching for my hand.

"Nina, honey, don't do this. I know you're hurt, but—"

I stepped back, avoiding his touch like it was a contagion.

I reached into the side pocket of my bag and pulled out a heavy, cream-colored business card. I held it between two fingers, offering it to him.

"This is my divorce attorney," I said.

"If you have anything else to say, tell it to her tomorrow. In front of your mistress."