Chapter 5— WHEN THE PAST AND PRESENT COLLIDED

ARIANA’S POV

After a few days, I was finally discharged from the hospital. I made a decision that many would call difficult, but for me, it was necessary. I could not return to Lucas. The pain I felt each time I remembered what he did was unbearable. Seeing him would only reopen wounds that were still bleeding.

So I left the hospital quietly, without informing him. It wasn’t out of anger—it was for peace, for my health, and for the life growing inside me. I had prayed too long for this blessing to allow stress or heartbreak destroy it.

I went straight to my cousin’s place, hoping distance would help me forget the betrayal I had suffered at the hands of the two people I trusted most—my husband and my best friend.

Lucas began calling relentlessly. Each ring felt like torture. I couldn’t bring myself to answer, so I changed my phone number. I told myself it was the only way to protect my sanity.

Yet, even in his absence, he occupied my thoughts. I loved him deeply—too deeply. I remembered how I trusted him with everything, even transferring all my late father’s properties into his name. I remembered his promises, his vows to stand by me forever. Somewhere between those memories, tears began to fall. I didn’t realize my cousin was watching until she came closer and gently held my hands.

“Take it easy, Ariana,” she said softly. “Everything will be fine.”

The next day was her birthday. She excitedly told me we would be going out together. I tried to decline, but she insisted. Because she meant so much to me, I agreed.

That morning, she came into my room with a shopping bag. Inside was a stunning gown and a matching pair of shoes.

“You’re wearing this today,” she said with a smile.

After breakfast, we dressed up and went out. We spent time at the beach, laughing, taking pictures, and for the first time in weeks, I felt light again. By noon, we went to one of the most highly rated restaurants in the state. As we ate, I realized I had forgotten my pain—if only for a moment.

Just as we were about to leave, I heard someone call my full name.

“Ariana…”

I turned around slowly, my heart pounding.

Standing there was Alex—my university boyfriend. The man I once loved deeply before life took us in different directions. We had lost contact after graduation.

I couldn’t believe my eyes.

We hugged tightly, overwhelmed with excitement. Meeting him felt like an answered prayer. We exchanged contacts and spoke briefly before parting ways.

That evening, Alex called me. We talked for hours, reliving old memories. Eventually, he invited me to dinner so we could talk properly. My cousin was thrilled when I told her. She even gave me one of her best dresses to wear.

When I arrived at the restaurant, I scanned the room for him. Suddenly, a gentle touch brushed my arm. I turned and saw Alex, dressed elegantly in designer wear and sunglasses. He led me to our seat, and that familiar warmth returned.

Over dinner, he told me about traveling to stay with his brother after school and how he lost his phone, losing all contacts—including mine. We spoke about family and life. When I asked about his marriage, he revealed he had divorced his wife just a week earlier. He was now the CEO of a large construction company.

I shared my own story with him—everything I had endured. He listened attentively, his eyes filled with concern. Before we left, he asked where I was staying and promised to visit.

The following day, a knock came at the door. My cousin opened it, and there stood Alex. After welcoming him in, she excused us and left us alone.

We sat close, laughing and reminiscing. His hand rested lightly on my shoulder as we looked into each other’s eyes. For a moment, the world felt still.

Then I heard the sound of a car pulling up abruptly.

Before I could think, the door burst open.

“You again!”

My heart stopped.

Lucas stormed inside, his face twisted with anger.

“What are you doing with my wife?” he yelled, charging toward Alex.

I stood up instantly, trembling.

How did Lucas find me?

Do they know each other?

Why did Alex suddenly look shocked?

Alex stood up slowly, his expression darkening as he faced Lucas.

“So it’s you,” Lucas growled. “After all these years.”

Alex’s jaw tightened.

“I never thought I’d see you again,” he replied.

I felt dizzy.

What did they mean?

What history did they share?

And why did it feel like I was standing between two men whose past could destroy my future?

The room was thick with tension, secrets waiting to explode.

And in that moment, I knew my life was about to change forever.

To be continued in Chapter Six…