Chapter 7: The Last Lie

Derek’s expression faltered, but he recovered fast, plastering on the same syrupy smile:

"How could I not love you? I love you more than myself. I’d die for you."

His words were so heartfelt that, for a split second, I almost believed him. If I hadn’t just seen him crying to Lillian less than an hour ago, I might have let myself fall for it again.

But now...

I gave him the kind of smile people wear at their own surprise party—overly bright, a little wild.

"Derek, I love you too. I know you’ve always wanted to help run the company. When we get back, I’ll give the company to you."

His eyes lit up, greed and excitement barely contained:

"Really? You mean it?"

I pretended to blush, letting my voice tremble. My voice trembled, but it was all act—inside, I was already miles away:

"When we go home and get married, we’ll be family. Why wouldn’t I? I’ll stay home, take care of the kids, cook for you, and take care of you..."

Derek jumped up, his excitement barely contained:

"Great, great! You can give me three sons, and we’ll all love you."

He was so wrapped up in his daydream that he missed the iciness in my gaze.

He’d been lying to me for years. When I said I didn’t want kids, he claimed he respected me. Now the mask was off.

I kept spinning out the fantasy for him. After I rattled off all my bank card passwords, he was so giddy he couldn’t keep his hands still—texting like crazy.

Thanks to the comments, I knew he was bragging to Lillian about how he’d played me. Thought once I was out of the picture, everything I had would be his. Too bad, buddy. It was all smoke and mirrors.