Chapter 132

The room buzzed with chatter, but it faded as I stood, lost in thought. Only Nicole's pregnancy echoed in my mind.

I slid down the wall, watching her gently touch her barely perceptible baby bump. Almost six weeks had passed since that night in my bridal suite. How twisted it all was. I, met with a tragic end at the hands of an enemy, while my fiancé's sister orchestrated my demise and now carried his child.

Over the past month, I'd witnessed humanity's ugliest aspects, convinced nothing could hurt more. But now, I understood unbearable pain's true depths. I sobbed silently, each cry echoing my inner turmoil.

A searing pain twisted through me, so intense I doubled over, retching unsuccessfully. The agony was overwhelming, far worse than any stab wound; I felt torn apart, powerless to change anything. I curled up, shielding myself from the relentless ache.

Why my child and I? Why did the one responsible live freely? My eyes found Chase, visibly shaken. The Kennedys discovering his connection to the child would be disastrous.

Chase, the perfect gentleman, was untouchable; this scandal would shatter that image, even for the Kennedys. His bride vanished, yet he fathered a child with her sister—a permanent stain on both him and Nicole.

He was a bundle of nerves, his hand clenched in his pocket, creasing his pants. The Kennedys ignored him, pressing Nicole about the child's father.

When Nicole hesitated, all eyes turned to Chase. "Chase, you've always been close to her. Have you seen this man?"

It was almost comical, considering he was the man. I wondered how he'd navigate this. Confession would shield Nicole, but silence would leave her vulnerable. "How would I know?" Chase stammered, masking his fear poorly.

Sweat glistened on his forehead, betraying his nervousness. Fortunately, the Kennedys hadn't yet suspected him.

Nicole intervened. "Mom, Dad, you don't know him—it was an accident." Chase glanced at her, relieved by her willingness to take the blame.

Nicole spun a tale of heartbreak, tugging at their emotions. "I didn't tell you because I didn't want to worry you. I haven't slept; every time I close my eyes…"

My family quickly dismissed their suspicions, comforting her. Nicole had skillfully shifted the focus. Chase might even have felt grateful for her quick thinking.

Yet, I remained trapped in my pain. Why? Why was I left with this torment?

Driven by a fierce will, I felt my fading presence enveloped in a dark, swirling mist, a reflection of my despair.