We were together for four years. No dramatic fights, no big betrayals—just raw, passionate love.

So how could she suddenly throw me away?

I looked at Evelyn on stage, and my chest burned with the need for answers. I started toward her, but before I could reach her, Marco Ramirez blocked my path.

He was so short he had to crane his neck to glare up at me. I actually had to dip my head just to meet his eyes.

“You’re still here?” He sneered, puffing up his chest. Then he jumped, trying to slap me across the face.

I stepped back, frowning, and looked past him. “Evelyn… you broke up with me just to marry this clown?”

“What nonsense are you spouting?”

Before I could react, Evelyn stepped forward and slapped me hard across the cheek.

When Marco swung, I dodged. But when Evelyn struck me, I didn’t move. I was terrified that if I dodged, she’d stumble in those high heels and fall.

She was about to be married, and I was still protecting her. Was I really this pathetic?

Touching my stinging cheek, I felt grief rise like a tide.

Marco smirked, stepping closer, his oily face twisted with contempt.