And now it was over.
The ceremony ended with an awkward silence, guests quickly standing as if they couldn’t leave fast enough. Conversations started in hushed, uncomfortable tones.
Chloe slipped away without meeting anyone’s eyes.
My father? Straight to the bar.
Of course.
I was already halfway out when I heard him behind me.
“Leaving so soon?”
His hand grabbed my arm.
“I’ve seen enough,” I said coldly. “You’ve both had your fun.”
He leaned closer, breath heavy. “You still don’t get it, do you?”
“Get what?”
“What she did for you.”
I frowned. “What are you talking about?”
He laughed harshly. “She married me to save you, you idiot.”
Before I could respond—
“Enough!”
Chloe’s voice cut through everything.
I turned.
She was crying.
“He wasn’t supposed to find out,” she told my father. “But now… I’ll tell him.”
The room went quiet.
I looked between them. “Can someone just explain what’s going on?”
She nodded, steadying herself.
“The week I disappeared,” she began, “two men came looking for you. Debt collectors. They knew your name.”
CONTINUE READING…>>
