Chapter 2

I had no idea when Camden and Kirsty met or got together.

I dazedly stumbled back to the home we shared.

When I looked at the photo of us framed on the wall, I desperately hoped this was all a dream.

If I were to wake up, would Camden and I go back to how we used to be?

Unfortunately, even after I finished packing up and going home, Camden never showed up to tell me it was just a dream.

I didn't dare to tell my parents the truth. All they knew was that we had broken up.

They simply responded that it was time I focused on the family's interests.

I agreed to the arranged marriage they set up for me, even though I'd never met the man.

At this point, it didn't matter who I married.

Then, a mutual friend sent me a screenshot of Camden's social media.

It was a collage of nine photos with Camden and Kirsty kissing in every one. The caption read, "The love of my life. No one else can compare."

"No offense, Ellie. Someone paid me to send you this screenshot." After that message, the friend immediately blocked me.

Camden wouldn't do something like this, which meant this was his fiancee's handiwork.

Days went by without a word from him.

I slowly began convincing myself to let go of this relationship.

The next time we met was at a bridal boutique.

"What are you doing here, Ellie?" There was no telling what was running through Camden's head at the time. Before I could answer, he muttered, "Forget it. Do as you please. If you want a wedding so badly, I suppose I could still give you one once this is all over."

"My being here has nothing to do with you," I explained.

Camden ignored my indifference and walked over to a rack to pick out a gown. "This one looks better. Why don't you try it on?"

Seeing the serious look on his face, a different thought crossed my mind.

I would wear the wedding gown he picked on my wedding day. The idea made me wonder what kind of expression he'd make once he saw what was on the big screen.

I nodded along. "Sure, let's go with that one."

Camden thought he had finally talked some sense into me.

"I'm glad you've come to your senses, Ellie. I'll give you anything you want. I just can't marry you. My company is still in its startup phase, and I can't afford to lose the Bainbridge family's investment. Once I get through this rough patch, I'll fulfill your every wish."

What a cruel joke.

I gave up a life of luxury to be with him and worked two jobs to support him.

Yet, he ultimately chose to abandon me for money.

What a joke.

"Why don't we go somewhere for dinner now that you've picked out a dress? Let's go to that restaurant you've been wanting to try. Sounds good?"

As Camden spoke, he pulled out a box and opened it, revealing a beautiful diamond ring nestled within.

He took my hand and said, "Kirsty really liked the other ring, so I gave it to her. This is also something I carefully picked out. Do you like—"

The ring got stuck on my finger and wouldn't go any further.

Camden's hand stiffened. He pursed his lips and put the ring back into the box. "The salesperson must've picked the wrong size. I'll give it to you once I've exchanged it."

I immediately called him out. "Was it the salesperson who picked out the wrong size, or did you forget my size?"

I could no longer understand this man.

Every one of his gestures screamed love. But upon closer inspection, that same love was littered with flaws.

"If you don't believe me, let's change it right now."

Regardless of my protests, Camden grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the boutique.