Chapter 3

It's been two days since Malik came home. He was busy taking care of Bella at the hospital. I tried to understand at first, but it started to feel awkward. When he finally returned, I had hoped he would sit down and explain everything. But as it turned out, he only came to get Bella's clothes.

I leaned back, looking at him sharply. "You have no intention of sitting down and talking to me, do you?"

Malik sighed, as if I was the one making things complicated. "Ruby, I have a lot to do. Bella still needs me there."

I chuckled, but it was bitter. "Yes, I know. You were always there for her."

He was silent. I knew he wanted to say something but chose not to speak in the end.

"I'm tired, Malik." I swallowed, trying to contain my emotions. "I don't want to be the one who just waits for you to come home, who takes care of this apartment like a maid. I want us to end this."

He immediately shook his head. "No, Ruby. We can't just end this. I promise, I won't be like this again."

I wanted to believe it, but reality said otherwise.

One week passed...

Malik grew distant. He only came to pick up clothes, without ever really staying. I stopped caring. I occupied myself with work, taking on more clients, more projects.

As a wedding dress designer, I knew every detail of the perfect dress. I poured all my energy into work, trying to forget this heartbreak. I didn't even have time to think about Malik anymore.

But apparently, my indifference made him suspicious.

I just read his message without replying. What did he expect? Me to stay faithful while he was busy with another woman?

And that day came. I received an invitation from one of my VIP clients who wanted me to attend her wedding as a token of appreciation for the dress I had designed.

I came confidently, feeling proud of my work. I was even curious to see who the bride was—the woman wearing my creation on her special day.

But once I saw who was standing on the stage, wearing a wedding dress I designed, the world seemed to stop.

Bella.

I looked at her with widened eyes. Then, Malik was beside her.

I designed Bella's wedding dress. I spent days making it perfect—without knowing that it would be worn by the woman who stole the man I once thought was mine.

I stood among the guests, my body tense. Everyone was clapping, praising how beautiful the couple was. But I could only stare blankly.

I held my breath.

At that moment, I realized... I had really been replaced.

I stepped back, wanting to get out of here. But in a careless move, I bumped into an assistant carrying a tray of food.

The sound of breaking dishes clinking echoed throughout the room. Everyone turned around, surprised to see food scattered on the floor.

I froze.

Bella looked at me in shock. Malik—for the first time since this event started—was genuinely surprised to see me.

I didn't care. Without saying anything, I turned around and walked out quickly.

"Ruby!" Malik's voice called out to me, but I didn't stop.

I heard his steps chasing me. I knew he would try to stop me. But this time, I wouldn't let him do it.