PART 2: THE WEEK THAT ENDED HIS EMPIRE

The diversion announcement changed Nicolás immediately. He pressed the call button repeatedly. “What is happening?” The cabin manager approached. “Mr. Ríos, please remain seated.” “I have a…

PART 2: SIX YEARS OF A FALSE MARRIAGE

I stood outside Dr. Tran’s office, unable to move. Inside, the conversation continued. Co Dien Bach’s voice remained cold. “She chose this marriage herself.” Dr. Tran sounded…

PART 2: THE HUSBAND ADRIAN NEVER EXPECTED

Ethan did not ask why. He did not ask whether I had fought with Adrian again. He only said: “Send me your location.” Twenty minutes later, a…

PART 2: THE MAN MY SON CALLED DAD

For several seconds, nobody in the hotel lobby moved. Co Thanh stared at the little boy in my arms. His eyes slowly moved from the child’s face…

PART 2: THIS TIME, I CHOSE MYSELF

For several seconds, nobody spoke. Lucas stared at the ring lying on the dark blue dress. Jessica was the first to recover. She gave an awkward laugh….

PART 2: THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY WITHOUT A GROOM

Ethan still believed the engagement party would happen. That was the funniest part. At eight the next morning, while I was sitting in my parents’ kitchen drinking…

PART 2: THE FUNERAL HE NEVER KNEW ABOUT

Adrian stared at me as if he had not understood the question. Then his expression hardened. “Your mother’s treatment has nothing to do with Helena.” I zipped…

PART 2: THE MISSION THAT NEVER EXISTED

I had barely left the bullet train station when Julián’s phone began ringing. Once. Twice. Then continuously. I didn’t turn around. I knew exactly who was calling….

PART 2: THE PRICE OF BREAKING THE ENGAGEMENT

“Since Mr. Pho has publicly confirmed that our engagement has been terminated, all financial arrangements established on the basis of that marriage will end at this moment.”…

Part 2: The Dinner Table I Should Have Seen Months Ago

I stayed outside that kitchen window until Hannah finished every bite. Not because she was hungry enough to enjoy it. Because she had learned not to waste…