Breaking the Shackles of a Secret Crush — Novel

About

Maya finds herself caught in a web of unrequited love and betrayal. For three years, she thought she had finally moved on from her long-time crush, Elliot, only to discover that Kendrick, her supposed savior, never truly loved her. As his affection crumbles under the weight of his lingering obsession with Nikki, Maya’s heart shatters alongside her dreams of a happy future.

When the truth hits hard on the day of Kendrick and Nikki’s engagement, Maya is forced to confront the painful reality of being a mere placeholder in Kendrick's life. Heartbroken and disillusioned, she decides to break free from the shackles of this false love. But can she truly walk away from the memories that haunt her?

As Maya prepares for an arranged marriage, she grapples with conflicting emotions, especially when Kendrick’s reckless actions and lingering feelings for Nikki threaten to drag her back into the chaos. With her heart in turmoil and the prospect of a new beginning looming, will Maya find the strength to reclaim her happiness—or will she remain forever entangled in Kendrick's shadow?

Breaking the Shackles of a Secret CrushChapter 1

Initially, I had loved Elliot Lautner for four years and he had pinned after Nikki Stewart for four years. I finally grew tired and turned to accept Kendrick Jefferson, who had secretly loved me for four years.

For three years, he pampered me into becoming the happiest woman in Covington city. Until at Elliot and Nikki's engagement day, his good friend accidentally let something slip, "Kendrick, to fulfill Nikki's happiness, you actually pretended to love Maya for three years. That's ruthless!"

"Tsk, as long as Nikki is happy, it doesn't matter who I marry," he said. I finally understood that all his affection for me was just his unresolved feelings for Nikki.

Forcing back the tears threatening to spill, I dialed my mother's number and said, "Mom, I agree to the arranged marriage you and Dad set up for me."

——

On the other end, my mom gasped in surprise, "Didn't you always oppose the idea of an arranged marriage? Why agree so suddenly? If you truly don't want this, we can cancel it. Don't force yourself."