The affection was just an act. I'm not going to continue thisChapter 1

I used to believe Adrian Farley was the universe's apology to me. A fair trade: a defective heart in exchange for a perfect lover.

Because of my congenital heart disease, Adrian abandoned his lifelong dream of finance. He chose medicine instead, clawing his way up to become the renowned Dr. Farley—a name spoken with reverence in every hospital corridor.

In my second year of graduate school, a speech he gave became legend on the university forums. He'd stood before hundreds of people and declared he'd chosen medicine for one reason only: to save his girlfriend.

Everyone said Adrian Farley was living proof that true love still existed.

I believed it too.

Until the tenth time I visited his hospital.

"Ms. Mason, Dr. Farley is currently discussing your medical records with Dr. Preston." The nurse's eyes darted away, unable to hold my gaze.

Ten no-shows. And every single time, Zoe Preston was the reason.

"Do you need me to page Dr. Farley for you?"

"No. Thank you."