I Lost the Memory of the Man I love after an Accident

After the fall, I lost part of my memory.

I remembered everything, but I didnt remember Dylan. My best friend Alice had been watching me for days until she finally realized it because not once did I even mention his brother.

Reese, whats happening? she demanded. Tell me the truth. Did you really forget about my brother Dylan, or is this just your act so he would notice you?

I blinked at her, confused. What are you talking about? Why would I act in front of your brother?

Her jaw clenched, her hands balled into fists at her sides. Because you love him! Have you forgotten how you stalked him for five yearseven though he always pushed you away because he liked someone else?

My chest tightened. I did that? I whispered. I chased someone who didnt even like me?

She let out a bitter laugh. Yes. You must have really knocked your head for you not to even remember that. But come on. She grabbed my phone from the nightstand and shoved it into my hands. Check your phone. You dont even remember your password, right?

I stared at the screen. I dont.

Its his birthday, she said coldly. Your password is Dylans birthday, Reese. Thats how far you went.

My fingers hesitated, then tapped the date shed said. The phone unlocked. My heart started to pound.

And there it wasa folder titled Him. Inside were dozens of notes. Scribbled thoughts, daydreams, heartbreaks. Descriptions of Dylans favorite coffee, the book he once held on the train, the way his voice changed when he was tired. Painful entries about him ignoring me. Dismissing me. About how I tried anyway.

Then one entry stood out. Today, I saw him with Katerina. She was holding his hand at the cliffs edge, and he smiled at her the way I always wanted him to smile at me. Maybe its time to let go but I dont know how.

That was the last note. After that, I mustve fallen.

Alice looked away, her voice quieter now. You loved my brother, Reese. But he never loved you. He never cared. Still, you have to remember what happened. Im going to call the doctor.

She turned and hurried out, leaving me alone with the ache in my chest.

I sat still, breathing through the confusion and hurt. Why did my heart ache so much over someone I couldnt even picture clearly in my head? Why did his name feel like a wound?

Then I heard voices from the hallwaylow, urgent, just outside my door.

Well, thats a good thing, a man said. His voice was sharp. Familiar. Reese cant remember what happened that day. So she wont have any idea that were the reason she fell. Thats great. At least shell stop stalking me. God, I hate her.

My blood ran cold. Dylan.

A woman whispered back, Are you sure? What if shes just pretending, Dylan? What if she remembers everything?

Ill make sure she never remembers, he said firmly. We have to act in front of her, thats why were visiting her, so my sister wont be suspicious, especially since she told me to visit her.

I didnt realize I was crying until I tasted the salt on my lips. My hands trembled as I gripped the sheets. I had fallen for that man? I had poured my heart out to him? And he hated me? Wanted me gone?

What kind of fool had I been?

Suddenly, everything inside me hardened. The pain didnt disappearbut it twisted, burned into something else. Something final.

I reached for my phone and dialed the one number that still made sense in my life.

Mom? My voice shook, but I forced the words out. I want to go back. Im ready.

There was silence on the other end. Then her worried voice: Reese? Are you okay? What happened?

Im done, I said quietly. Please arrange the marriage.

What? Waitwhat about Dylan? Didnt you tell me he was the only man you ever wanted to marry?

I let out a bitter breath. I mustve been out of my mind. Im done loving a man who doesnt care about me. I would forget about him from now on.

I stared at the bouquet resting on my hospital table. White lilies, blush roses, and a few wild daisies. A card was tucked between the petals, unsigned.

Alice practically bounced into the room, her grin stretching ear to ear. Reese! Look! My brother sent you flowers!

I blinked. Your brother?

Dylan, she clarified, like I was supposed to know. He came earlier, but you were asleep. He left those before heading out.

I glanced at the flowers again. They were beautiful, soft and delicate, like something chosen carefully. Thats nice, I murmured.

Alice beamed, grabbing the vase and holding it out like it was a trophy. You used to wish for this, you know? Just a flower from him. You even said youd cry if he ever looked your way.

I managed a weak smile. Its hard to feel happy when I cant even remember the feelings I once had.

Her face dimmed slightly, her voice gentle. Which is why were going to start with the doctors treatment. Itll help you remember. We can go tomorrow

No. My voice was firm. Theres no need for that. I dont want to remember your brother. Whatever memory I lostmy mind mustve known it wasnt a good one.

Alice blinked in surprise. Youre really sure about this?

I nodded, more certain than ever. Yes. Some things are better left forgotten. If my brains doing me a favor, I wont undo it.

I was finally discharged after days. I stood in the doorway of my apartment, the key still shaking in my hand. It felt strangefamiliar and unfamiliar all at once. Like stepping into someone elses life.

Dust clung to corners. Everything was as I left it, but nothing felt like mine. Until I walked into my room.

Photos. Letters. Drawings.

All of Dylan.

Some of them pinned on my board. Others tucked in my drawer like secrets I once cherished. There were notes in my handwriting

He smiled today.

Maybe if I tried harder, hed see me.

One day, hell love me back.

I sat down on the bed, one letter in my hand, heart aching despite the emptiness in my memory. How could I have loved someone this deeply? So blindly? Even now, with no memories to pull from, my chest throbbed with unspoken pain.

But then I remembered his voice outside my hospital door.

"God, I hate her."

"She wont remember we were the reason she fell."

And with that, the decision was easy.

I gathered every photo, every note, and lit a match. Flames crackled, slow at first. The corner of a photo curled, turned black, then vanished. And I watched everything I used to be reduced to ash.

But not all. Some of the trinketsthings I had prepared to give him, little gifts and lettersI packed in a box and left it at the couriers desk.

A few days later, I stopped by a caf near the hospital. It was quiet, just how I liked it. The barista knew me. It made things easier.

I was stirring my coffee when I felt someone watching.

I looked up.

Dylan. He was taller than I expected. Sharp jaw, hands tucked in his pockets like he had something better to do.

You sent me something? he asked bluntly, stepping to my table.

I nodded slowly. I found them in my apartment. I figured they were meant for you.

His brow twitched. Isnt it clear by now that I only see you as my sisters friend? You should stop with this obsession. Isnt it enough that you fell off a cliff from stalking me?

I flinched, then took a steady breath. Im sorry. I lost my memory. I didnt know. I just thought those things were important.

His expression shifted. He paused, pretending not to know. "Wait you really lost your memories?

Yes, I said quietly. So maybe you can help me out. What happened that day? Were you there on the mountain?

He looked away for a moment, then back. You followed me and Katerina. I told yourepeatedlyto stop. You wouldnt listen. Then you got mad and said youd kill yourself if I didnt choose you. And then you jumped.

I stared at him, a laugh almost escaping me. It was absurd. Really? I said that?

Yes, he said, almost too quickly. So Im telling you nowstop. Dont do that again. You dont need to be that girl. I dont deserve it.

I held his gaze. Thank you for telling me. But dont worry. I would never do that again.

I stood up and gathered my bag. For you? Yeah youre not worth it. I wont stalk you again.

He blinked. Are you sure?

Yes, I replied without hesitation.

Well in that case, he said, maybe we can stay acquaintances. Or friends, I guess. I mean, youre Alices best friend. Well probably still see each other. As long as you behave.

I smiled politely, the kind you give strangers. Of course.

Well, if thats the case, Alice said as she poured herself a soda, then my brother must have liked you at some point. I mean, maybe he doesnt realize it yetbut hey, thats good news!

I blinked. Good news? I echoed, raising an eyebrow. Alice, he literally said we could be friends if I behave.

Exactly! Alice grinned like it was some cosmic revelation. For five years, he ignored you like you were wallpaper. And now hes offering terms. Girl, thats a major shift! He mustve knocked his head and finally realized your worth.

I let out a dry laugh. No. Im pretty sure hes just feeling guilty. He told me I jumped off that cliff after he rejected me. Of course hes being nice. He thinks I tried to die over him.

Alices expression twisted. Wait what? You jumped? I thought it was an accident.

I paused. My chest tightened.

I knew the truth now.

They wanted me dead.

I looked away, gripping the glass in my hand a little tighter. Lets not talk about that. I dont want to know anymore. I dont want to remember any of it. I just want to move forward without your brother in it.

Alices expression softened. Thats too bad. Youre the only one I ever wanted to be my sister-in-law. I hate that Katerina. If only my brother loved you instead of her

I smiled faintly. Its okay. We cant really teach the heart who to love, right? But dont worry about me. In fact, I want you to come with me tonightwere celebrating something.

Alice blinked. Celebrating what?

What else? I said, standing with a grin. Me being free.

The club was loud and alive, bodies moving in sync with the bass. Colored lights danced across the walls, and for the first time in weeks, I felt like I could breathe.

I tossed my head back as I laughed with Alice, letting the music pulse through me like electricity.

I was no longer someones shadow.

I was me again.

We danced until our legs ached, until sweat clung to our necks like glitter.

And then, just as I was catching my breath, Alice tugged my arm. Guess what?

I gave her a wary glance. What now?

My brothers here, she said, eyes wide. He came with his friends. Theyre just across the room. Come on, lets say hi

No. I shook my head before she even finished. I dont want to.

She frowned, but didnt push. I appreciated that.

So I stayed. I danced harder. Wilder. My heart pounding, my body reclaiming itself with every move. I felt Dylans gaze eventually. Heavy. Constant. Watching from across the room like a hawk.

I ignored him.

Eventually, I slipped into a booth nearby, catching my breath, when I heard the unmistakable voice of one of Dylans friends.

Oh, look whos here. Your stalkers back, Dylan. A chuckle followed. Guess she hasnt gotten over you, no matter how many times you shut her down.

Another guy laughed. Dude, shes actually pathetic. I thought you told her to stop?

Shes behaved for now, Dylan replied, his voice cold and dismissive. But who knows? Maybe shell try to seduce me again like she did before. Remember when she tried to sneak into my room and kissed me? God, she was crying and begging for me to kiss her back.

Laughter erupted at the table.

I stared at my drink, heart thudding. My hands trembled slightly. I couldnt believe it. That was me?

I had cried for that man. I had begged for him.

And now he mocked me. Like I was a joke. Like my feelings were entertainment.

Another voice joined in, You inviting her to your birthday, Dylan? Maybe let her give us a performance. Based on how she danced tonight, shes got moves.

Dylan laughed. Surely, she wouldnt say no.

I gritted my teeth. Fury bubbled beneath my skin. But I stayed still. Silent. Let them think I didnt hear a thing.

Minutes later, Dylan approached. He wore that smug smile that used to make my heart flutter. Now it just made me want to slap him.

Id like to invite you to my birthday, he said casually. And I hope you can give us a little performance. Like the one you gave earlier. Very entertaining.

I looked him dead in the eyes. Sorry, Im busy on your birthday.

He blinked, caught off guard. What do you mean?

I said no.

Youre saying no to celebrating my birthday?

I tilted my head, my tone icy. Yes. Why? Its not like it means anything to me. I have better things to do.

He stared at me, confused, annoyed. Like what?

I smiled sweetly. I have a date.

And with that, I stood and walked out of the club leaving Dylan Green frozen in the middle of the crowd.

My phone buzzed just as I was brushing out my hair. I glanced at the screen and saw Mom flashing on the caller ID.

I hesitated a beatjust onebut picked it up anyway.

Reese, she said with a warmth only mothers could carry, Ive arranged everything. The house is ready, and were just waiting for you to come home.

I swallowed the lump in my throat. Ill be back soon.

Her voice dipped into concern. Are you sure nothing happened?

A pause. Too long. I didn't want her to know about the accident, so I lied.

No, nothing, I said, forcing lightness into my tone. I just woke up, I guess. From the stupid dream that hed ever love me.

Silence greeted me, then a soft sigh. Then thats great, sweetheart. He was no good for you anyway. That boy he was a storm you didnt need to weather.

I smiled faintly, ignoring the sting behind my eyes. Thanks, Mom.

Now, she continued, bright again, you can start preparing for your wedding dress! Go to the boutique today, and Ill begin arranging the dinner next week. Your groom is still busy with business, but it wont be long now.

I nodded, though she couldnt see it. Okay, Ill go today.

The call ended. And I just stood there, phone still in hand.

I wasnt even sure who this mysterious groom was. A family friend? Someone Mom trusted? A connection meant to reset my life like a magic switch?

Honestly, I didnt care. As long as it wasnt Dylan. As long as it erased Dylan.

The boutique was still my favorite place in town, tucked between a quiet florist and a quaint caf. White lace draped over the glass window display, glowing under golden afternoon light.

I walked in, heart unsure, but steps steady.

Rows of gowns greeted me, like ghosts of fairy tales waiting to be worn. I brushed my fingers along the delicate beadwork of a nearby dress, sighing quietly.

Maybe pretending would help. Maybe wearing a beautiful dress and acting like I was okay would eventually make it true.

But then a voice cut through the serenity like a blade.

Well, well. What are you doing here?

I turned around slowly, already recognizing the venom in that tone.

Katerina. Of course.

Tall. Flawless. Draped in a silky champagne gown that looked painted on her.

Are you stalking me again? she added, folding her arms, lips curled in disdain.

I blinked, calm. No. Im here to try on wedding dresses.

Her eyes narrowed. Trying to steal him again, huh? First seducing him like some pathetic desperate thing, and now this? Copying me?

I let out a breath. Im not here to start a fight, Katerina. Im really getting married. This has nothing to do with youor Dylan.

She laughed, loud and cruel. You? Married? Please. No one in their right mind would want you after the show you made. If I had any doubt before, now Im sureyoure doing all this to ruin my wedding.

My fingers curled into fists at my sides, but I didnt raise my voice. Im not. I dont care about Dylan anymore. Hes all yours now.

That should have been enough.

But it wasnt.

Dont act like youre innocent, she spat, stepping closer. You begged him to love you. You tried to sleep with him. Cried for him like a dog. And now youre parading around in bridal boutiques like some tragic, forgotten princess. Pathetic!

I turned to walk away.

And then I heard the soft clatter of porcelain.

I turned just as she grabbed a decorative vase from a nearby shelf, her face twisted in rage.

Katerina

Crack.

Pain split across my head like lightning. My knees buckled. The world tilted, then spun violently.

The last thing I saw before everything went dark was her face above me.

I told you, she hissed. Hes mine.

And then blackness.

I blinked slowly, my vision sharpening to the dull white ceiling above me. I tried to move, but my body felt heavy, sluggish. Something tugged at the side of my head. Bandages?

Reese?

I turned slightlyevery muscle protestingto see a familiar face leaning over me.

Alice, I croaked. Her voice felt like a lifeline in the chaos.

She looked as if she hadnt slept all night. Her eyes were puffy, rimmed with red, and her lip trembled just seeing me awake.

Oh, thank God, she whispered, grabbing my hand. You scared the hell out of me. Youve been unconscious and they had to stitch you fifty times.

Alice looked at the stitches on my forehead and winced. That bitch. Tell me it was herwas it Katerina?

I nodded slowly. She hit me. With a vase. I think I blacked out instantly.

Alice stood up, pacing. That witch really did it. I swear to God, Ill make sure she pays

But as she spoke, something shifted inside me. Like a window opening.

I I paused, holding my head as it throbbed. My memories... Alice... I think I remember.

Alice froze. What do you mean?

Bits and pieces came rushing backme in the shadows, watching Dylan with Katerina following them because I couldnt let go. The day at the cliff. Him pushing me away, so coldly. The look in his eyes. The echo of my scream.

I remember now, I whispered. Everything. How I used to follow him around. How pathetic I was. How I kept hoping hed see me.

Alices expression shattered. Reese

The doctor arrived soon after, eyes wide in surprise. Well this is extraordinary. Her memory returning like thisits rare. A miracle, really. Weve seen cases like this, but theyre not common.

Alice smiled with tears in her eyes. Then thats good, right? It means shes back.

But I wasnt the same.

Im going to tell Dylan, Alice said suddenly. About what Katerina did. He needs to know.

No, I said firmly. Its pointless.

What do you mean? she asked.

I dont care anymore, I said, voice calm, cold. Especially now that I remember everything.

Before Alice could argue, the door slammed open.

Dylan.

His stormy eyes were filled with fury. You just cant stop, can you?

I blinked. What?

Something happened to Katerina, he growled. Shes hurt and her hand is bleedingand she said you started it.

Are you kidding me? Alice snapped, stepping in front of me. It was Katerina who attacked Reese. She sent her to the hospital!

Dylan turned his glare to her. Now you're taking her side too? Great. Youve really learned from her manipulation.

Dylan, stop I tried.

He cut me off. Youve always done this. Always twisting stories. Just like when you said Katerina pushed you before, or burned you. I stayed quiet back then because you were my sisters friend, but Im done. Dont come near me again. And dont even mention marriagewhat a delusional joke. You? Fitting gowns just because you heard Im gonna marry Katerina and you? Marry me? Never.

He turned and walked out, slamming the door behind him. Not even letting me explain.

Something cracked inside me then.

I let out a scream. A guttural, raw scream.

No more love. Only hatred remained.

I would never let him near me again! Ever! This is the last time.

Third Person POV

The celebration was grand, just as expected of a family like Dylans. The restaurant was decked in black and gold, guests in elegant suits and dresses. Laughter echoed, champagne flowed, and at the center table, Dylan opened gifts from his friends and family, a cool smile resting on his lips.

Until he opened the plain white box.

No name. Inside, a neatly folded card with clean lettering.

He opened it.

And read: You are cordially invited to the wedding of Reese Gray and Vincent Valen.

His rival with Reese? The man whose presence always set Dylans teeth on edge. A powerful, ruthless businessman with connections that rivaled Dylans own.

For a moment, Dylan didnt breathe.

Then rage hit him like a wave.

Shes really getting into my nerves, he muttered, crushing the card in his hand. Now, shes doing a fake marriage to what get my attention??

He pulled out his phone and immediately called her.

But instead of picking upshe texted.

Congratulations too, on your wedding day. Dont worry. You're not the one I will marry. After all, I finally remember what happened on the mountain on how you tried to kill me.