Dumped by the Man I Saved, I Married His Worst Nightmare

Ill take the twenty million, I said quietly, forcing the words past the tight knot in my throat. Once the money is transferred, Ill remove myself from Dorians life completely. You have five days.

My tone was calm, but my fingers were shaking so badly I had to grip the phone with both hands.

A sharp, victorious laugh burst through the speaker. Vivienne sounded pleasedalmost celebratory.

So youve finally understood your position, she replied. Excellent. Ill see that everything is arranged, Camille. Just remember our dealstay out of my sons sight forever. I dont want you anywhere near him again.

She ended the call before I could respond.

For a long moment I didnt move. The sudden silence felt deafening, as if the world had been sucked out of the room. My phone slipped from my grasp and landed softly on the sofa. My eyes stung, but nothing fell. No tears, only the dull, hollow weight of giving up.

If this had happened months agoif I were still the woman I used to beI would have fought back. I would have screamed, demanded answers, clung to Dorian with everything I had. But something in me had changed. I was too tired now, too broken to keep battling a world I never belonged to.

I shut my eyes and released a shaky breath.

This wasnt how our story was meant to end.

Five years earlier, I had found Dorian lying unconscious beside the road, his clothes soaked with blood, his memories erased by the crash that nearly killed him. At that time, I barely had anything myselfjust a run-down apartment with cracked walls, a thin mattress I bought secondhand, and enough money to scrape through each week.

Still, I brought him home.

I cared for him day after day. I cooked simple meals from whatever I could afford. I cleaned his wounds, stayed awake beside his bed at night, whispering reassurances into the darkness. When he finally woke, disoriented and afraid, I forced a smile through my tears and told him, Youre not alone anymore. Youre with me.

He couldnt remember his family, his past, or even his own name. But somehow, he remembered me.

In that tiny apartment, in that fragile little bubble we created, we fell in love. It wasnt grand or glamorousit was raw, imperfect, real. He worked tirelessly, taking every odd job he could find, saving each dollar. At night, hed hold my hand and murmur, One day, Camille, Ill make sure you never have to struggle again. Ill give you everything.

And eventually, he did.

Because the truth came crashing back into our livesDorian wasnt a nobody. He was the heir to one of the most powerful corporate dynasties in the city, born into unimaginable wealth. When his memories returned, he took me with him into that glittering world of privilege and influence.

I thought it was the beginning of our happily ever after. He stood up to Vivienne, his cold, commanding mother who treated me like dirt under her heels. He slid a diamond ring onto my finger and vowed, I choose you. Always. Youre my home, Camille.

But fairy tales dont last.

Then Yvette came back.

His first love. The woman who belonged effortlessly to his world. Beautiful, elegant, connectedeverything I wasnt. She returned as if she had never left, and little by little, I felt myself fading into the background.

He forgot our sixth anniversary.

I waited in the penthouse, dinner growing cold in front of me, until the television lit up with images of Dorian walking arm in arm with Yvette at a high-profile gala. The headlines screamed about their reunion, about how destiny had reunited the perfect couple.

Something inside my chest collapsed that night.

When he found the photos I left on my desk, he accused me of spying on him, of hiring people to follow him. He never realized Vivienne had fed me every piece of evidence to push me out of his life.

And yet I stayed.

Until now.

The sound of the door unlocking dragged me back to the present. The glass doors slid open and Dorian walked in, loosening his tie, phone still pressed to his ear. He didnt even look at me.

Did you cook? he asked absently.

I watched him, my lips twisting into a sad, bitter curve. Didnt you already have dinner with Yvette?

That finally made him glance my way, irritation flashing in his eyes. What is this, Camille? Are you spying on me again? Havent you caused enough trouble with those photos before?

That wasnt me, I murmured, barely loud enough for myself.

He went on as if I hadnt spoken. Do you have any idea how much I lost when I had amnesia? Contacts, deals, influence. Everything Im doing now is for business. Yvette and I are done romanticallyIve told you that over and over. Shes just a strategic connection.

I wanted to believe him. I truly did. But the edge in his voice, the way he grouped himself with Yvette so naturallyit told me the truth he wouldnt say.

So I simply nodded.

Then I stood up.

Where are you going? he demanded.

I turned back with a blank expression I didnt feel. I dont feel well. I need to lie down.

I passed him without another word and locked myself in the bedroom that had never once felt like home.

I collapsed onto the bed, clutching my chest. Everything around me glitteredexpensive furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows, the city shining beneath me.

But it all felt meaningless.

My eyes landed on my passport on the nightstand. My hand shook as I picked it up. After a long, unsteady breath, I dialed a number I knew by heart.

Cass? Mara answered immediately, concern thick in her voice.

I swallowed hard. Can you come for me in five days? Im Im not marrying Dorian anymore. I need to leave.

The sudden heat startled me out of my thoughts.

When I blinked my eyes open, someone was holding me from behind. Dorians arms were firm around my waist, his chest warm against my back. His breath skimmed the curve of my ear as he spoke softly, almost apologetically.

About last night I know I wasnt there, he murmured. Work piled up, thats all. Let me make it right today. How about we go out later?

Before I could answer, his lips brushed my cheek in a gentle, lingering kissthe kind that used to melt me. Then he slipped something cold and smooth into my palm.

I glanced down. An emerald pendant rested there, its deep green surface catching the light.

I owe you more than an apology for forgetting our anniversary, he continued as he clasped it around my neck. After were married, Ill finally take you to the Maldives. Youve dreamed about it for years.

My lips curved into a faint smile, but my throat felt too tight to speak.

He stepped away and returned with a breakfast tray balanced carefully in his handsscrambled eggs, toasted bread, a glass of juice. Look, I even cooked, he said, clearly proud of himself as he set it down in front of me.

If this were the pastback when we lived in that shabby little apartment and he saved coins just to buy me a cheap ringI would have been overjoyed. I would have thrown my arms around him, telling him he was all I needed.

But now?

I just went through the motions. I poked at the food. I smiled when he looked at me. I pretended everything was fine.

Because I could feel it in my bonesour love had already shattered.

Then his phone rang.

The name glowing on the screen was one I recognized instantly. Yvette.

He glanced at me once before answering. Its business, he said casually. Ill see you tonight. Put on the outfit I sent.

And just like that, he was gone, coat in hand, his familiar scent lingering in the room like a memory I couldnt hold onto anymore.

The silence afterward felt unbearable.

I shoved the tray aside and walked to the wardrobe. I opened every drawer, every hidden corner, dragging out the relics of our pasthandwritten letters, cheap souvenirs, the flimsy ring he once bought while juggling five jobs, dried flowers from days when we couldnt afford bouquets.

I gathered them all into a box. They had once meant everything. Now, they only reminded me of how much I had lost.

I slid the box out of sight. When I left, none of this would come with me.

That evening, I dressed in the gown Dorian had chosen and fastened the emerald necklace around my neck. I styled my hair the way he liked, painted my lips the shade he always complimented. I told myself it would just be the two of us tonightthat maybe he was finally trying again.

But the moment I entered the restaurant, my heart sank.

Yvette was already seated.

Well, this is awkward, she said with a bright smile. Same dress, same necklace. Looks like we have identical taste.

My voice barely came out. Why are you here?

Dorian cut in before she could answer. Theres a client meeting tonight. Yvette happened to be nearby, so she joined us. She was hungry anyway.

I thought this was supposed to be our dinner, I said quietly.

He sighed in annoyance. Dont start, Camille. Ive had a long day. Sit down and eat.

So I did.

The dishes were served. Out of habit, I waited for him to place my plate in front of me like he used tobut instead, he set it in front of Yvette, smiling as he adjusted it for her.

Then came the seafood platter.

The smell made my stomach twist. A memory flashedyears ago, my throat closing, my body breaking out in hives, Dorian sitting beside my hospital bed after Id nearly died from an allergic reaction.

How could he forget something like that?

He looked at me, confused. Why arent you touching your food? Isnt this what you like?

Yvette leaned closer, smirking. Its my favorite too.

I cant I whispered. Im allergic.

But his phone rang again, and he stepped away without hearing me.

Yvette didnt waste the chance.

You really dont get it, do you? she said quietly. Hes turning you into me. Same clothes, same jewelryso he doesnt feel guilty about settling. Your necklace isnt even real. Mine is. He gives me the originalsyou get the knockoffs.

I said nothing.

She smiled coldly. Do yourself a favor and disappear. You dont belong in our world.

I met her eyes. Then Ill leave.

I stood, but she suddenly cried out, kicking her chair and tipping her bowl.

My legshe burned me! Yvette screamed.

Dorian rushed back instantly. What happened?!

She lost her temper and hurt me, Yvette sobbed.

Thats not true! I protested.

He glared at me. She makes a living with her legs, Camille! And you think you can just ruin them?!

Then he grabbed the hot plate and pressed it against my thigh.

The pain was unbearable. I screamed.

Now you know how it feels, he said coldly.

I collapsed as he carried Yvette away, her face buried in his shouldersmiling at me over his arm.

And I was left there alone.

My hands shook as I wound the gauze around my thigh, wrapping it again and again until the sharp sting faded into a dull, pulsing ache.

When I finally finished, I lifted my eyes to the mirror. The emerald necklace still hung at my collarbone, glittering cruelly against skin that had cried itself raw. My eyes were swollen, my lashes clumped with dried tears, and my leg was buried beneath layers of white clothlike a secret I could never truly cover.

In that moment, the truth settled over me with terrifying clarity.

I couldnt stay here any longer.

I pushed myself upright, ignoring the protest in my muscles, and walked straight to the closet. There were no tears this time. I dragged my suitcases out and began filling them without hesitation. Then I gathered everything elsethe letters he once wrote, the photos of our happier days, the tiny mementos I had guarded like treasuresand dumped them in a heap on the floor.

Instead of boxing them up like before, I lit a match.

The fire swallowed our past in seconds, ink bleeding into ash, paper curling into nothingness.

I was finished.

But just as I lifted my luggage, the front door flew open.

Dorian stormed in, eyes darting between the charred remains on the carpet and the row of packed suitcases at my feet.

What the hell happened here? he barked. Why are our things burned? What are you packing for? And why does it smell like smoke in here?

I looked at him calmly. I donated them.

His brows drew together. Donated? And the bags? Where are you planning to go?

A vacation, I said faintly.

A vacation? he repeated sharply. Our wedding is around the corner and youre talking about trips without telling me? Is this because of yesterday? Camille, I already apologized.

Sorry. That word again.

He raked a hand through his hair and started pacing. You know her family is backing the merger. I couldnt embarrass herif she loses face, the deal collapses. Im doing this for our future. For us.

My gaze drifted to his legsthe same ones that once knelt before me when he had nothing but broken promises and hope in his eyes.

Now they had walked me straight into heartbreak.

Please, he said more gently, reaching for my fingers. Just give me a little more time. Once this is over, Ill put you first. I swear.

I couldnt speak. My chest felt packed with stones.

Then his eyes fell to my bare hand. Wheres your ring?

I stiffened. I took it off. It doesnt feel right anymore.

Something unreadable crossed his face before he pulled me into a hollow hug. Well go to the auction tomorrow. Ill buy you a better one. Whatever you like.

I nodded, numb. Just a few more days.

That night, I opened my bank app.

A new transaction glowed on the screentwenty million dollars.

From Vivienne.

The bargain was complete.

The next morning, I stepped outside and froze. Yvette was already seated beside Dorian in the front of his car.

Ohsorry, she said lightly. His mother insisted I tag along today. She said Id be more suitable for something like this. Youve never been to an auction before, right?

Dorian met my eyes in the mirror. Its business again. Dont overthink it.

So I climbed into the back seat, staring out the tinted window. I remembered how Dorian once dreamed about buying us a tiny car. Well drive everywhere together, he had said, smiling like the future was ours.

That future had vanished.

At the venue, cameras flashed endlessly. Dorian and Yvette stood close, laughing easily, looking every bit the perfect couple. Reporters whispered their names with awe.

When someone asked who I was, Dorian replied smoothly, Just a friend.

The words tore straight through me.

Later, Yvette leaned toward me and murmured, See? You were never meant to be here.

I clenched my dress so tightly my nails bit into my skin.

Eventually, I stood, intending to leave quietlybut something on display stopped me cold.

A gold locket.

It lay on velvet, glowing softly under the lights. It was identical to my grandmothersthe one I sold long ago to pay for Dorians medical bills.

He had once sworn to buy it back for me.

Trembling, I reached out

Thief! a woman suddenly screamed, shoving me. Shes stealing!

The noise around me felt like blades slicing through my skin.

I didnt take anything, I pleaded, gripping the golden locket so tightly my fingers went numb. I only picked it up to check it. Its mineit was my grandmothers. I planned to buy it. I swear.

My explanation vanished beneath mocking laughter.

Shes lost her mind, someone jeered.

Look at heracting like she belongs, another voice scoffed.

The crowd closed in, eyes full of contempt. Heat flooded my face as whispers became accusations. Then someone gestured toward the jewelry I was wearing.

Those stones arent even real!

A woman seized my wrist and tore off the bracelet Dorian once bought for me. Cheap copy, she said, tossing it away as if it were trash.

Then something hit my shoulder.

A roll of bread.

Next came wine splashing down my dress. Then plates, napkins, scrapswhatever they could throw. The crowd rained humiliation on me until I felt smaller than dust.

Through it all, I searched desperately for Dorian. I scanned every face, praying Id see him stepping forward, defending me, stopping the madness.

He never did.

He stood there like I was a stranger.

That was the part that broke me.

They forced me out of the building, shoving and striking until I collapsed on the pavement outside. My gown was ruined, my body aching, and my heart beyond repair.

No one followed. No one helped.

As I lay there, another memory cut through meyears ago, when a vendor falsely accused me of stealing bread at a market. Back then, Dorian had shielded me with his own body, shouting for everyone to back off, proving my innocence.

But tonight he had turned away.

We no longer belonged to the same world.

I staggered to my feet and limped through the streets until I saw the faint glow of a pawnshop sign. My hands trembled as I removed the necklace, the rings, every piece of jewelry he had ever given me.

Please, I told the clerk softly. Tell me the truth. Are these genuine?

He studied them carefully, then slid them back toward me. Theyre replicas. None of it has value.

My legs nearly gave out.

That was when everything finally collapsed. His love, his vows, the symbols I treasuredthey were all lies.

I left with nothing in my hands and nothing in my heart.

From there, I went straight to the police station. I want to file a complaint about what happened tonight, I said, forcing calm into my voice. But even as I spoke, I knew it wouldnt change anything. Their world didnt answer to people like me.

Later that night, I was barely lying down when the door burst open.

Dorian charged in, rage blazing across his face. Before I could react, he slapped me so hard I fell back onto the bed.

Have you lost your mind? he shouted. You think you can accuse those people after trying to steal from them?

I didnt steal anything! I cried. That locket was my grandmothers

Enough! he snapped. You dont stand a chance in court. You dont have the money or the power. Drop it now before you disgrace me again. Youre nothing but dead weight. I should have left you rotting in that slum apartment.

Tears spilled freely now. For an instant, something wavered in his eyesbut it vanished just as quickly.

Then Vivienne appeared in the doorway.

Dorian, she said calmly. Dont be so cruel. Shes clearly humiliated.

She approached me with a smile that never touched her eyes. Cancel the report, Camille. Ill pay for the locket. You can have it back.

Dorian scoffed. Stop encouraging her. Shell start thinking she deserves things.

He turned back to me. Embarrass me again and there wont be a wedding. Then he left.

I didnt move until Vivienne bent down and yanked my hair, forcing my head up.

Disappear before the ceremony, she whispered. If you bring shame to this family again, youll regret it.

She shoved me to the floor and walked away.

Hours later, my phone vibrated in the darkness.

With blurred vision, I picked it uphoping it was my friend.

It wasnt.

A mans unfamiliar voice came through. Miss Camille, this is Landon. Dorians biggest competitor. How would you feel about becoming my wife instead?

My body went rigid as I tightened my grip on the phone. I didnt really know this man on the other end of the line. All I knew about him came from Dorianhow his tone sharpened every time Landons name was mentioned, how hatred rolled off him whenever their rivalry came up. And strangely, that alone was enough.

If Dorian loathed him that deeply, then perhaps Landon was the sharpest blade I could use to cut Dorian down.

A cold smile crept onto my lips. My voice stayed calm, but my chest felt like it was burning from the inside.

Then maybe you should be the one to come get me.

His laugh was slow and confident, the sound of someone who never doubted himself.

Running away from your groom? I like that idea.

A weak chuckle slipped from me. Tomorrow, then, I murmured, ending the call before I could change my mind.

My heart poundednot with fear, but with something darker and far more dangerous.

Revenge.

Then I turnedand nearly jumped out of my skin.

Dorian was standing in the doorway, watching me with narrowed eyes.

Who was on the phone just now? he asked.

I forced my expression to remain relaxed despite the panic in my veins. Mara, I replied lightly. You remember hermy best friend. Shes coming to the wedding.

He stared at me for another moment before speaking again. Actually His tone shifted, suddenly casual. I think well need to delay the wedding.

The words knocked the air from my lungs. Delay it?

He moved closer, sighing. Something urgent came up overseas. I have to leave on a business trip. Once Im back, Ill focus on us again.

I nodded, the corners of my mouth lifting in a brittle smile. Of course.

Youre not upset? he asked carefully.

I shook my head. I get it.

His fingers brushed my hair, guilt briefly flashing across his face. I really am sorry. Ill make it up to you.

Should I help you pack? I offered quietly.

He gave me a tired smile. That would be great.

That night I folded his clothes, lined up his shoes, zipped his suitcase with hands that felt strangely calm. When he kissed my forehead goodbye, convinced everything was still under his control, I stood alone in the penthouse after he left.

To distract myself, I began tidying upand noticed his laptop still open.

I knew I shouldnt touch it.

But I did.

The email on the screen made my blood run cold.

Maldives Wedding Confirmation Dorian & Yvette.

I laughed aloud, a hollow, broken sound. So thats your business trip.

My phone buzzed.

A message from Yvettealong with a photo of her kissing Dorian, his hands buried in her hair.

Doesnt he look happier with me?

I stared at it for a long time before blocking her number.

The next morning, Dorian texted like nothing had happened: Ill buy you something nice when Im back.

I didnt answer.

Instead, I slipped on my coat and walked toward the exit.

The butler looked up. Madam, where are you heading?

Just to buy something for the wedding, I replied smoothly. Ill take a taxi.

I left my packed bags behind on purpose. If anyone was watching, they would think I was staying.

But around the corner waited a black limousine.

The window slid down.

Landon smiled at mesharp, unreadable. So, ready to disappear?

A flicker of fear passed through me, but I pushed it aside. Anything was better than the prison Id lived in.

I am, I said.

Hours later, as his private jet lifted into the sky, I removed my SIM card, staring one last time at Dorians name. Then I tossed it away.

Goodbye, I whispered.

---

Dorians POV

I couldnt stop pacing. Camille hadnt replied to any of my messages.

Dorian, Yvette purred, wrapping her arms around me. Why bother with her? Shes probably throwing another tantrum. Were the ones getting married

I shrugged her off. Dont.

She smiled lazily. Dont remind you that you belong with me?

I glared at her. This is business. Im still marrying Camille.

She laughed. After everything you did to her? Please.

Her words struck harder than I expected. I pulled out my phone.

Camilles name was gone.

Blocked.

My stomach dropped.

I called the butler immediately. Where is Camille? Why isnt she answering me?

A pause. Then his answer: She left yesterday, sir and never returned.

The silence of the hotel was suffocating. My chest ached, a gnawing emptiness that grew heavier with every unanswered call.

I threw another suit into my luggage, grabbing the phone with my other hand. Book me a flight, I barked at the airline. Earliest one to the States. I dont care what it costsjust get me there tonight.

Behind me, Yvettes voice sliced through the room. Seriously, Dorian? Youre going to postpone our wedding for that? Were in Maldives! Everyones expecting this wedding!

I stilled, my hands clenching into fists. I dont care. Im going back to Camille.

She crossed her arms, eyes flashing. What about the merger? The contracts? You know you need this. And for what? Because she didnt come home last night? And is not replying to you? Her tone dripped with mockery. If you ask me, shes just making this a big deal to get your attention.

I didnt reply and just continued thinking about Camille.

Come on! Shes such a nothing, poor bitch, whos clinging to you like a parasite! she added.

Something in me snapped. I turned, my palm striking her cheek before I even realized what Id done. The sound cracked through the air, followed by her sharp cry.

You dare Yvette clutched her face, eyes wide with disbelief. You dare hurt me for her? For that woman? Her voice pitched higher, hysterical. My parents will hear of this! Theyll never accept you after this!

Whats going on here?

My mothers voice cut in, calm but venomous, as she stepped into the room. Viviennes sharp eyes darted from Yvettes trembling form to the half-packed luggage at my feet.

Hes postponing the wedding to chase after her, Yvette spat, her finger pointing at me like an accusation.

Viviennes face darkened. Are you insane, Dorian?

No, I said firmly, turning to meet her gaze. For once, Im not. This wedding, this whole thingits fake. Its all for business. But my marriage to Camille? Thats real. And I wont give her up.

Her lips curled in disdain. Shes nothing but a gold digger.

No, I snapped, my voice breaking. Shes not. Its my fault she left. I pushed her away. I hurt herGod, I humiliated herbecause I thought I was protecting her. But all I did was destroy the one person who ever stayed.

My mothers expression shifted, a cruel sort of amusement in her eyes. Is that what you think? That shes innocent?

What are you saying?

She left you, Dorian, Vivienne said smoothly. She asked me for ten million dollars. I transferred it to her account myself.

My chest tightened. No. Youre lying.

Am I? She pulled out her phone, her perfectly manicured fingers tapping a few buttons. A video played, Camilles voice trembling: Ill take the money. Just prepare it in five days.

And thenthe proof. The transfer, her name etched beside the sum.

My head shook violently. No no, she would never

She did, my mother said simply.

The words struck me like a blade. My knees almost buckled as I staggered back, clutching the edge of the table for support.

My breath caught in my throat, and before I could stop it, a flood of memories came crashing into me.

The hospital. The sterile smell of antiseptic. The fog in my head when I first woke up, not knowing who I was, not even my own name.

And her. Camille.

I saw her again as if she were right in front of me. That tiny, dimly lit apartment where she brought me after the doctors released me with no one to claim me.

She had nothing, not even enough space to call it a home, but she gave me what she could.

I remembered waking up on her thin mattress, my body aching, my mind blank. She sat on the floor beside me, peeling potatoes with hands that shook from exhaustion.

Where am I? I croaked, my voice raw.

She looked up, startled, then gave me the smallest, most reassuring smile. Youre safe. Thats what matters. Dont strain yourself.

Who are you? My chest tightened at the thought that I couldnt even recognize her.

She hesitated, then placed the bowl aside. Im Camille. You dont know me, but I found you. And until youre strong enough, Ill take care of you.

I remembered the way I stared at her, confused. Why? You dont even know me.

Her lips trembled, but she lifted her chin with quiet resolve. Because someone has to.

She had nothing. But she never asked me for anything.

I had promised her the world. And in return, I gave her lies.

I refuse to believe this, I whispered, my voice hoarse. No. Not Camille.

Then stay blind, Vivienne hissed. But understand thisif you go after her, if you choose her over us, you will never step foot as my heir again. Youll lose everything.

Her words hung in the air like a curse.

But what was wealth, what was power, when the one person I wanted most was already gone?

I didnt answer. Couldnt. I simply zipped the luggage and walked past her, Yvettes shrill protests ringing in my ears.

The private jet felt colder than ever as I boarded. My phone was clutched tightly in my hand, the screen lighting up with her namevoicemail, unanswered calls, message after message left unread.

Blocked.

The finality of it carved a hollow into my chest.

As the plane lifted into the night sky, I leaned back, staring blankly at the stars outside the window. Memories haunted me with every breathher laughter when she burned herself in the kitchen and I scolded her gently, her tearful smile when I swore Id give her everything once I had the money, her quiet strength when she told me shed wait for me no matter how long.

And now?

All I could hear was my own voice breaking in the silence.

Please, I whispered, pressing the phone to my lips. Please dont leave me. Im sorry, Camille. Im so sorry.

The tears came then, unbidden, hot and relentless. And the bitter fear that when he returned home, she would be gone forever.

Yvette could still feel the sting on her cheek. The humiliation of Dorian striking her, of being dismissed for that lowly woman, burned hotter than the red mark on her skin.

She paced the length of the room, her fury spilling out in shrill words.

He dares hurt me for her? Me?! she spat, her heels clicking against the marble floor. If he doesnt marry me, hell regret it. You know it as much as I do, Vivienne. Without my familys support, without me covering your tracks, Dorian will learn the truth. Hell know you had bankrupted the company because of your gambling when he disappeared. Hell know the mess you hid from him.

Viviennes face hardened, though her voice remained calm. Lower your voice, Yvette. I am doing the best I can. I even gave Camille ten million dollars to ensure she disappears. She will never come back. This should all be simple.

Simple? Yvette scoffed, eyes narrowing. Your son doesnt love me anymore when he should be. Hes still chasing after her! And this marriage? Postpone! What am I gonna tell them? My parents!

Viviennes gaze was sharp, unforgiving. Then make him love you. Stop whining. Seduce him. Better yet, make yourself pregnant. That way, he will have no choice but to keep you by his side. You think tears and shouting will win him? Do what it takes. We can just tell them something happened so we have to postpone it!

Yvettes lips parted in outrage, but she found no words to argue.

She only hissed through her teeth, fury flashing in her eyes. That wretched Camille shes ruined everything.

Viviennes tone turned cold, final. Enough. Well talk about this again when we return. For now, we have to cancel everything before he makes more foolish decisions.

Yvette bit her lip hard enough to taste blood, cursing Camilles name under her breath.

Back at the estate, Dorians car screeched into the driveway. He burst through the door, ignoring the startled greetings of the staff. His chest heaved as he called her name again and again, his voice echoing against the high ceilings.

No answer. He ran upstairs, into their room. The moment he entered, the sight nearly broke him.

On the dresser lay two rings. The first, the diamond-studded engagement ring he had given her under the glittering lights of the city. The second, smaller and wornthe ring he had once bought with only five dollars in his pocket.

No stone, no shine. Just a simple band he had pressed into her palm years ago, his voice trembling with certainty. Camille, I may have nothing now. But one day, Ill give you everything. Until then, let this ring remind you of my promise.

He sank to his knees, his fingers clutching the ring until his knuckles turned white.

Memories struck him like lightningtheir laughter in that tiny apartment, the nights they shared a single blanket, the mornings when she brewed cheap coffee and teased him for being dramatic about the taste.

One day, Dorian, she had whispered into his ear when they lay together, well leave this place and start our family somewhere peaceful. And when that day comes, you wont need to give me the world. Youll just need to stay.

But he hadnt stayed. He had obeyed his mother. He had let Yvette walk all over her. And now Camille was gone.

Find her, Dorian barked at the butler, his voice breaking. I dont care howcall every driver, check every street, search every corner. She left in a car, you said? Then find out who the hell was behind the wheel.

Yes, sir, the butler said, bowing quickly before rushing out.

Dorian remained on his knees, the rings digging into his palms as he called her number again. Each time, the call ended with the same hollow responseblocked.

His voice trembled as he whispered into the empty room, Please, Camille. Come back. Dont do this to me. Not now.

The hours dragged on, each second heavier than the last. He thought of every moment he had failed herthe anniversary he forgot, the dinners where she was left alone, the cruel words he spat just to please his mother.

The memories clawed at him until tears slid down his face.

And then, in the middle of his despair, a thought struck him.

Mara. Her best friend.

Dorian stumbled to his feet, wiping at his face. Mara, he muttered, reaching for his phone. He dialed her number, praying she would answer.

Hello? her voice finally came, cautious.

Maraits me, Dorian. Do you know where Camille is?

There was a pause. I thought you two were fine. She told me you made up, that the wedding was still on. Thats why I havent seen her. I was supposed to go there now. Wait whats happening?

Dorians chest tightened. No. Shes not here. Shes gone. Didnt she tell you where she is? Shes not really with you?

Mara sighed heavily, her tone sharp with disappointment. No. I dont know Oh, god. Of course, she was heartbroken, Dorian. Do you really think she could just smile and go on after what you did with Yvette? She told me she wanted to call it off. But after yesterday she never replied. Nothing since.

His grip on the phone trembled. Shes not home, Mara. She never came back.

The silence on the other end was heavy. Then Mara spoke softly, almost sorrowfully. Then youve truly hurt her, Dorian. Hurt her enough for her to leave everything behind.

His vision blurred with tears. The weight of it all bore down on himher absence, his guilt, the promise he had broken.

But beneath it, a flicker of resolve burned.

I might know where to find her, Dorian whispered, his voice hoarse. Our old apartment. She once told me that when everything fell apart, shed go back there because thats where we dreamed of starting our family.

Without another word, he began packing his things again, his heart pounding with desperate hope.

Then you truly have hurt her for her to leave like that

Those were the last words I heard as Maras voice carried faintly through the room. She wasnt talking to me. She was on the phonewith him. With Dorian.

I froze, the sweater I had been folding slipping from my hands.

My chest tightened as if the air itself had turned against me. Maras back was to me, her voice taut with anger, and then the call ended abruptly.

The silence that followed was unbearable until Mara sighed and turned to me, her brows drawn in worry. Are you really sure about this, Cassie? I mean it seems like hes looking for you. You could talk, just like the old times when you both had misunderstandings. You used to fix things so easily.

I shook my head slowly, my throat tightening. No. Not this time. This isnt something a talk can fix. He hurt me, Mara. He let me be humiliated in front of everyone. He stood there while they threw food at me, mocked me, treated me like I was dirt. He didnt even defend me. My chest burned as I forced the words out. So no, I wont let him find me again.

Her gaze softened, though it didnt lose its edge. Do you still love him though?

I closed my eyes, the silence stretching between us. My lips trembled before I finally whispered, Yeah. And I dont think Id ever not love him. Thats the problem.

The confession broke something inside me. My body leaned back against the chair, eyes closing as an old memory rose unbidden.

We were in the apartment back then, our world small but enough. The cupboards were almost bare, the fridge humming weakly with only a carton of milk, some leftovers, and cheap coffee inside.

The floorboards creaked whenever we walked, and the peeling wallpaper carried the scent of old paint. But it was home. Our home.

Dorian was bent over the tiny stove, his brow furrowed in concentration as he tried to make rice and a few vegetables stretch for both of us. The pan hissed as he stirred too quickly, and I laughed from where I sat at the rickety table.

Youre going to burn it again, I teased, resting my chin on my hand. Do you really hate me that much, Dorian? Poisoning me slowly?

He shot me a mock glare over his shoulder. Hey, Ill have you know Im a natural-born chef. This is a secret recipe.

Secretly inedible, maybe, I quipped, grinning.

He chuckled, shaking his head as he scooped the unevenly cooked rice onto two chipped plates. The vegetables looked limp, the seasoning almost nonexistent, but he carried them to the table with the pride of a man serving a feast.

Ill make it up to you, he said, setting the plate in front of me with a grin so wide it made my chest ache. One day, Camille, Ill buy you a whole feast. Every day, every mealyoull never have to worry about empty cupboards again.

I stared at him for a moment, the sincerity in his eyes stealing the air from my lungs. Then I shook my head, a soft laugh escaping me as I reached across the table to take his hand.

Dont make promises like that. I dont care about feasts or palaces. Just stay with me. Thats all I want.

His thumb brushed against my knuckles, rough from working shifts that exhausted him as much as me. He squeezed gently, leaning forward. I will. Ill always stay.

I blinked rapidly, dragging myself back into the present, and Mara reached out to squeeze my hand. Dont worry. Were in an island now. He wont find us here. Youre safe.

I nodded, though my chest still ached. Thank you, Mara. For everything.

She tilted her head, studying me. But tell me honestly, Cassie what are you going to do with Landon? Are you really going to marry him?

The question sat heavy on my chest. I swallowed hard, my eyes drifting away. Im not sure. I have to think. I cant make another mistake. Not again. I need to be clear with him before I decide anything.

Mara squeezed my hand again. Whatever it is, Ill be here. Always.

I gave her a small, weary smile and nodded.

Later that evening, I busied myself with arranging my things. The room smelled faintly of sea breeze, but it couldnt mask the heaviness in my heart.

As I folded clothes into a suitcase, my hands brushed against something stiff. I pulled it outan envelope filled with old photographs.

My breath hitched.

It was us. Me and Dorian, back in that little apartment. His smile was wide and carefree, his arm slung around my shoulders as though the world outside didnt exist. In another photo, I was laughing so hard my eyes had disappeared into crescents, while Dorian looked at me like I was the only thing worth seeing.

I sank onto the bed, clutching the pictures to my chest as the tears finally spilled. They burned as they slid down my cheeks, soaking the photos until the images blurred.

What happened to us? I whispered into the silence. When did we stop being enough for each other?

The sobs came harder, my body trembling with the weight of everything Id lost. My chest felt tight, my stomach churning until suddenly I lurched forward.

I barely made it to the bathroom before vomiting, my body rejecting everything at oncefood, tears, grief.

When it was over, I pressed my palm against the cool tiles, my body shivering. My head spun, vision darkening at the edges. I stumbled back toward the bed, my knees weak.

And then the dizziness overwhelmed me.

The last thing I saw was the photograph of us slipping from my hand to the floor as I collapsed beside it, my body giving in at last.