Chapter 4: Promises and Doubts

"Honey, I’m sorry. That jerk Jake ruined our wedding night."

Emily’s voice trembled as she pulled me close, arms circling my neck, though her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes. The chatter in the hallway faded, but the tension still hung in the air.

There was something in the way she looked at me—almost apologetic, but not quite guilty. Her gaze flicked away for just a second too long.

“Jake came just to mess with me, didn’t he? Does he like you?”

I tried to sound casual, but my words came out sharper than I meant. I searched her face for any sign of discomfort, but she just rolled her eyes.

“How could that be? We’re just old friends, childhood buddies.”

“If you don’t like him, I’ll stop seeing him. Don’t be mad, okay?”

She kissed me gently.

Her lips were soft, reassuring. For a moment, the world faded away and it was just the two of us, surrounded by the faint scent of roses and champagne.

That kiss instantly melted all my frustration from the night.

The anger in my chest loosened its grip, and I almost believed everything would be fine. Almost.

“Then keep your distance from him. Anyone who can’t control himself when drunk has a problem with his character.”

I said it half-joking, but I meant every word. Trust was fragile, and tonight it felt even more so.

“Yes, dear husband.”

Emily agreed without hesitation. Her expression was sincere, her eyes full of nothing but affection for me.

She smiled, squeezing my hand. For now, I let myself believe her.