When Love Fades as Fast as Fireworks Brief Flame and Get Cold EasilyChapter 1

My freshman year of college, I made the impulsive decision to marry my professor.

For four years, I was the one chasing him, clinging to the fragile hope that he might one day see me as more than just an obligation. Recently, though, something had changed. Brian had started calling me his wife and even kissed me of his own accord. Still, as graduation loomed, a nagging suspicion grew in my heart—he wouldn’t acknowledge me in public.

Happiness, as fleeting as fireworks, dissipated on the night of the graduation party. Kate returned.

Brian poured her three glasses of wine and wrapped his arm protectively around her waist. I was right there in the room, watching. My hands trembled as I texted him.

“Brian, I’m going home.”

In my mind, I whispered a silent plea: This is the last time. If you come after me now, I’ll forgive you. I’ll listen to your excuses. After all, I am your wife.