I played the audio embedded in the live photo, my hands trembling. The noise of the crowd nearly drowned out the voices, but Brian’s words rang clear as day:
“I knew you’d love it.”
The realization hit me like a freight train. It was just an excuse. He didn’t want it for me because he wanted to give it to her.
My fingers clenched around the phone, my nails digging into my palm as my chest heaved with silent sobs. When I finally looked down, my knuckles were white and the phone screen was dim again.
Returning it to the nightstand, I made my decision.
By tomorrow, I would be gone. I booked a one-way ticket to Dubai on my phone, ensuring my exit from Brian’s carefully constructed world.
The next morning, Brian had already left.
His secretary entered the room, carrying a tray with toiletries and a polite smile.
“Good morning, Miss Duncan. Mr. Rocha left last night. He had an urgent business trip. He also asked me to inform you that the engagement party will be postponed for two days.”
I nodded absently, staring out the window as the sun rose over the city. Two days. He wouldn’t find me by then. By the time he returned, I would be gone. Vanished from his world forever.