They were a gift from Ambrose for their engagement, sparkling crystal diamonds that caught the light like a thousand stars. The shoes were as expensive as they were beautiful, a fairytale dream brought to life. Hazel had fallen in love with them the moment she saw them.
But no matter how stunning they were, they were one size too small, and the pain from wearing them had left her feet bloodied and raw.
Without a second thought, she slipped them off and tossed them into the trash.
Shoes that didn’t fit, no matter how dazzling, weren’t worth keeping.
And a marriage that didn’t fit, no matter how much love it held, wasn’t worth salvaging.
Just as she reached for her phone to call a cab, Ambrose appeared behind her. His voice sliced through the air, calling her name.
Hazel turned, meeting his gaze. The moment their eyes locked, Ambrose released Scarlett’s hand, guilt flickering in his eyes as he noticed the bruise on Hazel’s face.
“You’re sober now? I didn’t mean to hurt you. I just wanted to snap you out of it before things went too far.”
Hazel glanced at Scarlett, and Ambrose quickly added, “It’s not what it looks like. Let me explain…”