died my

7

I watched Terry and Katherine’s blissful moment, feeling numb.

Even in death, the pain in my soul left me restless.

Terry seemed to have forgotten about me and my critically ill mother entirely, lost in his romance with Katherine as they shopped for wedding dresses.

At the Shane Group’s bridal shop, the staff eagerly greeted Terry. “Mr. President, choosing a gown for your wife? We haven’t seen her in a while. How’s her health?”

I smiled bitterly. Even this stranger knew about my illness, while

husband thought I was lying.

my

The irony was painful.

Everyone knew who “wife” meant, and Katherine’s face.

darkened.

12:24

7/9

Before she could react, Terry frowned.

“Did Wendy put you up to this?” he asked the confused assistant, cutting her off before she could respond.

“Whatever trick she’s using, remember who really runs Shane Group.”

He stormed out, dragging Katherine along.

My heart ached, though I was already numb to the pain.

I felt worthless, but with my mother in the hospital, I had no choice but to endure.

As they approached another store, Terry’s phone rang.

He brightened, probably hoping I was calling to apologize. Seeing it was his mother, he looked disappointed.

He answered, and Linda Shane’s angry voice came through. “Terry, what’s going on?”

“The doctor says you’ve cut off Wendy’s mother’s medical funding.”

Terry chuckled, unconcerned.

“So what? How long will you hold that old debt over me? Isn’t marrying her daughter enough? Want to burden me for life?” I stood there, stunned, as if I’d never known this man.

Linda’s voice grew more furious.

“You monster! Wendy’s mother is critical. Get to the hospital now!”