To protect his pride, I never mentioned that my parents had bought it. I told him it was rented and that I had him move in to help with rent. I covered the rent for the first few months, telling him to pay me back when he could.
This apartment had witnessed his confession, his proposal, and his promises. Now, it also witnessed his betrayal.
Maybe he didn't change. Perhaps that was who he really was all along. The tears I had held back all night finally fell.
When I woke up the next day, my eyes were swollen. The makeup artist knowingly said, "Were you too excited to sleep well last night?"
I forced a smile and closed my eyes, letting her work on my face while my mind replayed the scene of James and Emily kissing.
Outside, I heard James and the groomsmen loudly demanding entry, and my heart ached. When I opened my eyes again, I was filled with cold resolve.
James eventually found the hidden shoes, helped me to the living room, and paid respect to my parents.