You Hurt Me Once, I’m Gone Forever — Novel

About

In a world where love is a battlefield, Anna finds herself torn between ambition and a relationship that’s crumbling under the weight of jealousy and betrayal. After winning a prestigious design award, the last person she wants to celebrate with is Isaac, whose loyalty seems to lie with Alma—his childhood friend and the shadow that looms over their love. As the lines blur between friendship and rivalry, Anna grapples with the harsh reality that Isaac may never choose her over Alma.

With each Instagram post and heated phone call, tension mounts. Can love survive when it feels like a competition? When Isaac’s anger flares and Alma’s manipulations become evident, Anna must confront her own heart and decide: Is the fight for Isaac worth the pain it brings? As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, Anna's resolve is shaken. Will she remain trapped in a toxic cycle, or will she find the strength to walk away for good?

As their lives intertwine in ways neither anticipated, the question remains: Can one truly move on from a love that once felt destined? The answer could change everything.

You Hurt Me Once, I’m Gone ForeverChapter 1

After winning the National Creative Design Competition Award, I instinctively wanted to share it with Isaac Lucas.

I opened the chat window and saw what Isaac had said to me a week ago, [Anna, Alma's grandma is sick again, so I won't be home for the next couple of days.]

I didn't reply.

Isaac didn't ask.

I was busy with the competition and had almost forgotten what our last cold war was about.

Seeing there was no response made me feel empty and didn't want to share anymore.

I thought I suddenly stopped loving Isaac.

——

I exited the chat window, turned around and posted a message on my Instagram with the caption, [On the road to my dreams, I want to be my own star.]

The photo was I was holding the trophy, standing on the stage, seemingly surrounded by light and shadow, truly shining.

I looked at the increasing likes and comments on my Instagram.

Friends were praising me for being excellent and amazing and many envied me for achieving my dream.

While those comments made me happy, I saw a comment tagging Isaac.

It was Alma Bailey.

Alma said, [Isaac, look! Your wife is so amazing.]