1
E
“Where’s Phoenix? Tell him to answer the phone,” I said, stunned for a few seconds before quickly regaining my composure.
Lydia pretended to carefully examine my surroundings through the video. Then she smiled coyly, “Miss Cora, you’re in the honeymoon suite, aren’t you?”
“The new bed is very comfortable. I’ve tested it for you,” she repeated.
I felt like the ground had dropped out from under me, my mind going blank.
I stared intently at the woman in the video, momentarily speechless.
Lydia’s gaze swept over the bed sheets, her tone smug: “The groom is quite good too. I’ve tested him out for you as well.”
By now, I could clearly see her surroundings – it was a hotel room.
I forcefully suppressed my anger, trying to stay calm. I asked again, “Where is Phoenix?”
Lydia deliberately glanced in a certain direction, then feigned reluctance: “Mr. Brown is working overtime, of course. He’s very busy.”
Just then, I heard that familiar voice.
“Lydia, come help me wash my back.”
At that moment, I felt like I’d been paralyzed. My mouth opened and closed, but no words came out.
“You just want to trick me into showering with you, you naughty boy,” Lydia said.
As she spoke, she gave me a triumphant look, then abruptly ended the video call.
I collapsed to the floor, all strength leaving my body. A tidal wave of anger and sorrow engulfed me.
After I don’t know how long, I let out a bitter laugh and tossed the bed sheets into the trash.
Tomorrow was supposed to be my wedding day with Phoenix. While I was busy preparing our honeymoon suite, he was busy taking a romantic
bath with his female assistant.
I knew Lydia wanted to ruin my wedding. She had succeeded.
I sent Phoenix a message: “Phoenix, let’s break up. The wedding is off.”
I wanted nothing to do with a tainted honeymoon suite or a tainted man.
I looked at the decorative figurines on the table – a kissing bride and groom in traditional red wedding attire. I threw them in the trash too.
I smashed our framed wedding photos hanging on the wall.
I destroyed all the decorations I had carefully put up around the suite.
I sent messages to friends and family canceling the wedding, then turned off my phone and went home.
Once things quieted down, I forced myself not to think about all the years I’d spent with that dog of a man.
I drank myself into a stupor, seeking oblivion in alcohol.
The next morning, I was awakened by furious pounding on my door.
Phoenix and his groomsmen were outside, all dressed up in suits and looking presentable.
The roses Phoenix was holding were crushed and scattered. Seeing that I had clearly just woken up, he became enraged.
“Cora! Are you out of your mind?!” he shouted.
