Chapter 3

"Girl! Is your news true?" Amirah exclaimed as she entered Casa de Café, where I was waiting.

"Tss. You’re late! I’ve been here forever!" I grumbled, annoyed.

"Is it the end of the world just because you waited so long?" she asked sarcastically.

"You scumbag!"

"So, what is it? Is it true? You’re going to marry your crush?" Her eyes sparkled.

"Yes," I sighed.

"Oh my gosh! You’re unbelievable! You said you’d only flirt with him. And now? Not only did you flirt—you’re going to marry him? Can I have your prayer?"

Her face beamed as if everything was perfect. Maybe I should be thrilled too, but my life is already a mess. Our relationship—and his relationship with his girlfriend—both ruined.

Her smile faded when she saw my expression.

"B... is there a problem?"

I told her the whole story, how furious Mommy and Daddy were. I could see the worry in her eyes.

"I’m sorry… I wish I’d been there for you," she said softly, holding my hand on the table.

"Hey, it’s not your fault. It was my mistake—my choice—so don’t apologize."

"Didn’t you say Steve has a girlfriend?" she asked. I nodded. "So… how’s that going to work?"

"That’s the thing—it’s humiliating for her. I’m sure she’ll think I seduced him into marrying me."

"Girl! That’s also on Steve. He’s the man—he should take responsibility! But since you were both drunk… well, there’s no undoing it. Architect Steve is something else."

"Hmm… I’m not sure. I can’t disobey Daddy either. If I resist, Steve will be sued. That’s a bigger problem," I said, leaning back in my seat.

"You know what, girl—don’t stress too much. Nothing’s final yet. Just relax."

"How can I relax, A? I’m a complete mess! I graduated as an architect for our company, and now I’m going to be the wife of a man who doesn’t even love me?"

"Hey… maybe they’ll work out their own issues. And about you and your future husband—if you’re married long enough, he might learn to love you. It’s not impossible, B."

Learn to love? Me? That seems as hazy as my dad’s loyalty—he clearly adores his girlfriend.

"I don’t know what to do… and I can’t stop Daddy either."

I’d rather not ruin their relationship, but it’s too late. By the time Daddy decided to marry us, I’d already destroyed someone else’s trust—and my parents’. One mistake. Too many consequences.

After talking, Amirah and I went home separately.

Driving back to my subdivision, I saw a couple walking hand in hand, laughing. Their joy was written all over their faces.

Guilt twisted in my chest. She had no idea. Who would dare tell her that her boyfriend was marrying someone else?

As a woman, I know how she’ll feel. I wouldn’t want that pain—but I’ve already given it to someone because of one night’s mistake.

I’m sorry…

Tears blurred my vision as they disappeared down the street. I realized I’d pulled over. My hands slammed the steering wheel, and I cried silently.

"I’m sorry… I’m sorry if I ruined your happiness. I’m sorry if pain will replace the love in your eyes. I’m truly sorry… sorry…"

I cried until my chest felt lighter. Why must we suffer for one wrong night? If only I could take it back…

When I finally calmed down, I drove home. I didn’t see my parents—only the house helper.

I locked myself in my room and lay on my bed, staring at the ceiling. My mind wandered to Steve’s I*******m account. I grabbed my laptop and opened his profile.

The more I scrolled, the heavier my guilt grew. I regretted everything. I pitied her even more. Should I even marry him?

One post stopped me. September 2—the night it happened. It was supposed to be their happiest day: their anniversary and engagement, just before Steve went to Rose’s birthday.

One night’s mistake… to destroy five years of love.

How can I marry the man of my dreams knowing someone else is suffering? How can I stand at the altar while she’s left with the pain of losing the man who promised her forever?

Three knocks broke my thoughts. I quickly closed my laptop and wiped my tears.

"Ma’am Czes, it’s dinner time," the maid called from outside.

"I’m coming!" I replied, forcing steadiness into my voice.

In the bathroom, I washed my face, but my swollen eyes gave me away in the mirror.

"I’m exhausted… but I have to pretend again for Dad."

I fixed myself and headed downstairs.

The three of us ate in silence. They didn’t even look at me. It felt like I was sitting with strangers.

"Prepare yourself tomorrow," Daddy said after dinner, his tone commanding.

"For… what?" I asked nervously.

"I’ve invited your fiancé and his family for lunch. We’ll talk about the wedding, the date—everything."

"D-Dad…"

"What? You’re thinking about his girlfriend?" He smirked. "I don’t care about their relationship. Just marry him. Don’t worry about someone else’s problem. Is that clear?"

"But… Dad… they—"

"Stop, Czes. I don’t want to discuss it. Just do what I said."

What now, Brianna? How do I stop this wedding?

Back in my room, I opened Steve’s last post again. It was probably the happiest day of their five years—until someone like me ruined it.

If he didn’t have a girlfriend, I’d gladly agree to this arrangement. I’ve wanted him for so long. But like this… they’ll both curse me.

Now, I can imagine the pain she’ll feel. The man who promised her marriage will be at the altar with someone else—me.