Their kiss was passionate, a fervent seal on their commitment. My gaze fell to the modest sterling silver ring on my own finger—the one Hudson had given me with promises of an upgrade once my mother’s medical treatment was sorted out. He had insisted we save money for her care, and I had trusted him, clinging to the hope of a brighter future. But now, as I watched their love unfold, the truth crashed over me like a cold wave. He had been living a double life, and I was the one left in the shadows, unaware and heartbroken.
Harper hesitated, her brow furrowing with concern. “Hudson, aren’t we being unfair to Aubrey?”
Hudson gently stroked her back, his expression calm. “It’s precisely because we’ve been together for five years that I’m determined to marry you. After everything we’ve been through, I don’t want to leave any regrets behind. As for Aubrey, I’ve done my part. I’ve taken her and her mother to hospitals across the country. I’ve done everything I could for her.”
“But what if she finds out?” Harper’s voice wavered, a hint of worry creasing her brow.