I press my hand to my mouth, stifling a gasp. The weight of Shane's words settles heavily in my chest. He's choosing me over his family, over everything he's ever known. But instead of joy, all I feel is a crushing sense of guilt.
I can't be the cause for ruining his life. He'll never forgive me.
"Shane, please," his mother begs. "Think about what you're saying. That woman... she's not built for this life. She'll never fit in. Is she really worth throwing away everything we've built?"
I don't wait to hear Shane's response. I turn and flee down the hallway, my footsteps muffled by the plush carpet. I slip into our bedroom, closing the door behind me with a soft click.
The room feels different now, colder somehow. I sit on the edge of the bed, my fingers tracing the intricate pattern on the duvet. How many nights have Shane and I spent here, wrapped in each other's arms, dreaming of our future?
But those dreams feel hollow now, tainted by the reality of our situation.
I twist the engagement ring on my finger, watching as it catches the light. It's beautiful. But it's not real. I'llneverbe Mrs. Shane Kennedy.
I walk over to my laptop, opening it with shaking hands. I sent out some inquiries for jobs back in South Dakota, and my cousin Kenzie said she'd check into positions in Silver Ridge. It's not in South Dakota, but it will get me out of New York.
I open my inbox and see a response from Kenzie.
Hey, cuz, that job at Peterson Ranch is still open if you're interested. Big Bear says they could use someone with your skills. Call me when you get this message.
My heart races as I send a quick response accepting the job. I'll work out the details once I'm out of this house. I move to close my laptop and notice another urgent email.
My stomach drops as I read the sender: Jordan's attorney.
The message is brief but threatening. They're pushing for full custody, citing my "unstable lifestyle" as grounds. The words blur as tears fill my eyes.
No. I won't let him win. Not this time.
With trembling fingers, I dial Jordan's number. He answers on the second ring, his voice smooth and confident.
"Krystal, what a pleasant surprise."
"Cut the bullshit, Jordan," I snap. "I know what you're trying to do."
He chuckles. "I'm just looking out for our daughter's best interests."
"By trying to take her away from me?" I clench my fist, anger burning hot in my chest. "I've got news for you. I've saved every text, every voicemail, and every email. How would your prenup hold up if she knew aboutus?"
There's a pause, and I can almost hear the gears turning in his head. His excuse was always that he couldn't leave his wife, and after digging, I found outshe isthe one with the money.
In fact, I met her folks at the gala.It's a small world.
Thank God they didn't know who I was. But I was in the right place at the right time. And now I'm about to bust his balls. I'm fibbing about the prenup, but it's what I'd do if my parents gave me trust. And just by his response, I'm right.
"You wouldn't dare."
"Try me," I growl. "Back off, Jordan. Or I swear I'll burn your whole fuckin' world to the ground."
I hang up before he can respond and exhale a shaky breath. For the first time in years, I feel free. It's intoxicating.
But it's not enough. I know I can't stay here.
I move to the closet, pulling out a suitcase. Each item I pack feels like another step towards freedom: Ashanti's favorite sweater—the one she insists on wearing even when it's too warm—and my old work boots, scuffed and worn but comfortable as a second skin.
As I fold a t-shirt—one of Shane's that I've claimed as my own—memories flood back. The first time he held me, how safe I felt in his arms. Making love under the stars. The future we'd planned together.
Tears blur my vision, and I sink to the floor, clutching the shirt to my chest. God, I love him. But I can't stay. I can't be the reason he loses everything.
The sound of the bedroom door opening startles me. I quickly shove the suitcase under the bed, wiping my eyes as I stand.