Chapter 1 Chapter 1: Love is Not Enough

Chapter 1: Love is Not Enough Jasmine POV “Do you still remember my promise to you four years ago?” I glanced at Travis when he suddenly said that. Promise? Which of his promises? That he would love me as much as I love him? That he would cherish our memories until our last breath? I shrugged because I didn’t know what he was referring to. He smiled and slowly took my hand, placing it on his chest, where I could feel his heartbeat. His heart was beating rapidly, mirroring mine. He looked straight into my eyes. “I promise to love you forever,” I smiled at his words. I knew that. I looked away, still smiling broadly. “I know,” he chuckled. “I know, you know, but that’s not the only thing I mean. Four years ago, I decided to marry you.” I looked at him again. I remembered that. I thought he was just joking back then. This is the second time he mentioned marrying me. “Marry me?” He nodded. “Yes, from the first time I saw you, I knew you were the woman I wanted to spend my life with. You’re beautiful, kind, and caring, Jasmine. You possess all the qualities I admire.” Oh God, he’s praising me too much. My face reddened. Even after all these years in a relationship, the feelings remain the same. He never fails to make me feel loved. “You are the one I want to be with for the rest of my life, too,” I said while blushing hard. He gently held my cheeks and made me face him. “I love you so much,” he slowly took something from his pocket. Tears welled up in his eyes at this moment. “And I don’t want to let you go. Will you marry me, Jasmine?” I bit my lower lip in surprise. I couldn’t believe he was proposing to me now. Tears streamed down my cheeks. This is unexpected. I smiled as I wiped my tears away and hugged him tightly. “Of course. I will marry you,” I said with tears of joy. “Thank you, love.” He whispered. Two weeks after he proposed, we got married. I was so happy that day, and I couldn’t ask for anything more. Being with him is enough. I quietly gaze at our wedding portrait. Four years had passed, and things didn’t turn out as expected. I pressed my lips together and sighed. I don’t know why everything led to this. We love each other, but love alone is not enough. And it will never be enough. I wiped away the tears from my eyes. I couldn’t help but cry as I remembered our memories together when we were still happy. A sad smile formed on my lips as I comforted myself. “This is life, Jasmine. It’s tough, but I’ll endure,” I cheered myself. I stood up from the couch and headed to the kitchen to cook breakfast for him. My husband came home late last night and forgot our anniversary. I prepared a small surprise for him yesterday. I wanted to be with him on our anniversary, but he’s not here. He was too drunk last night to celebrate, so I let him sleep to get some rest. This wasn’t how he used to treat me.  Two years ago, things slowly changed. The once sweet and caring Travis was replaced by someone cold as ice. He often ignored me and didn’t come home, and if he did, he was either drunk or very late. I didn’t know what was happening to him. Every time I tried to ask, he quickly avoided the conversation. I realised that I might be the problem. Maybe he’s not happy with me anymore. I’m almost done cooking when I hear his footsteps upstairs. I immediately smiled, “Come on. I’m almost done cooking. Let’s have breakfast together before you leave.”“No, I’ll be late. Maybe tonight at dinner. I’ll come home early,” he said without even looking at me. The smile on my face quickly faded. “Late? It’s too early. And besides, you’re the boss. Please, Travis—” He looked at me. “Not now, Jasmine. I have an important meeting today.” I just nodded and bit my lip to keep myself from speaking. Let him go to work; don’t argue with him. I told myself. I watched him walk away from me. Then reality hits me. He never even bothered to look back. When the door closed, I let out a sigh. I found myself staring blankly at the food I had prepared. For the past two years, this has been happening to me every single day. Being ignored by someone you love hits differently. It hurts. It felt like someone was cutting my heart into a million pieces because of the pain I felt. I couldn’t help but let out a sob. I didn’t want to cry, but I couldn’t stop. I’m hurting too much. This pain is slowly killing me inside. I don’t know the reason for his coldness, but I’m sure he doesn’t have a mistress. Even though it’s getting difficult for me, I don’t want to let him go. We’ve been together since college, but I first met him in high school. He courted me for almost two years. So, it’s hard for me to believe that after all the efforts he made, he could hurt me like this. I slowly sat down. I felt lonely as if there was a huge hole in my heart. Should I give up? No, I can’t. Even if he can’t keep his promises, I should keep mine. “Why don’t you just leave him? You’re always crying because of him,” my best friend said in frustration. I couldn’t blame her for saying that. Every time I cried, she was always the one whom I talked to. I shook my head, “I can’t. I love him so much, Die.” Diane’s face crinkled when I said that. “How about him? Does he still love you? The way he treats you is just cruel, Jas.” I fell silent at what I heard. “See, you’re aware of that matter too, Jas. If you’re not happy anymore, you need to free yourself from that relationship. I don’t even know if there’s still a relationship between the two of you. He’s treating you like a stranger,” I bit my inner lips. She was right, but I believed I could still fix our marriage. I looked at Diane intently. “I know he still cares for me—” she raised an eyebrow. “Still cares? Are you kidding me, Jasmine Evergreen?” She said in disbelief while shaking her head. “If he really cared for you, he wouldn’t be cold and distant. Enough with being a martyr, Jas. Let yourself be happy.” I shut my mouth close. I closed my eyes, “Maybe you’re right. But I still need to try, Die.” Her brow furrowed. “Try what?” I took a deep breath. “I need to take a chance again. He made efforts before; maybe it’s time for me to make the effort.” Diane stared at me as if she couldn’t believe what I said. “Efforts? Damn, girl. It’s always you make efforts. It saddens me to see your marriage life this miserable. But, girl, wake up to reality. Just because you’re married doesn’t mean you should let your life be sad. You’re still young; you deserve better. “ I fell silent at her words again. I slowly looked at her. “Do you think the fault is mine, Die?” I asked her suddenly. She looked at me, “Of course not. You’re lovely, Jas.” She firmly answered. “Travis is just crazy,” she added. She pulled me closer to her when she noticed that I was silent. Tears were welling up in my eyes. “I’m just giving you advice, Jas. The final decision is still yours. Whatever you choose to do, I’ll support you,” she said while caressing my back. “But I hope you choose what will make you happy.” I nodded. “Thank you, Die.”“I’m always here for you. But what’s your plan?” she asked. What is my plan? I can’t leave him now. Maybe he’s just going through something. I will try to save this marriage. “Maybe I’ll first find out the reason for his coldness. When things get worse, we’ll see,” I decided. “Good to know you have some sort of plan.”“The truth is, I don’t know what I should do anymore.” I’m feeling hopeless now. “I know you’re confused. But you can overcome this problem, Jas.” I nodded. I hope I will.

Chapter 2 Chapter 2: Divorce

Chapter 2: Divorce Jasmine’s POV “By the way, I need to go home now.” Diane nodded her head. “Sure. I guess he promised he’ll go home early today again, am I correct?” She guessed. I bit my bottom lip as I nodded. She shakes her head, “And you still believe him. Anyway, that’s your choice. Let’s hope he will keep his promise today.” I smiled and hugged her. “Thank you for always supporting me, Die.” She tapped my back. “Go home now.” I nodded. “Get well, Diane.” She nodded. Before I left, I looked back and waved my hand. She waved back. I’m lucky to have her. She’s the only one who understands me. Diane and I have been friends since college. She saw how Travis courted and proposed to me. She liked him for me before. But when he started ignoring me, she wanted to skin him alive. She even joked that only if she can, she will. Diane was diagnosed with a rare disease one year ago. There’s only a small chance to get cured, but choose to fight. The hardship between her and I, hers, is worse. I’m fighting to save my marriage while her. She’s fighting for her life. She can’t walk anymore. I pity her, but she is always telling me that she’ll smack my head if she sees me pitying her. So, I never did. I don’t want her to feel weak. I want her to fight until she recovers. I wanted to see her get married. I’m slowly losing my husband now. And I don’t want to lose her too. I look up the hospital before I get inside my car. “I wish you a fast recovery, Diane,” I whispered. It was four at noon when I reached our home. The first thing I did was prepare dinner. He said he would come home early today, and I’m sure he’ll do it this time. I was smiling while cooking. Even if he’s treating me coldly, I know he still cares for me. If he did not, he should have filed for divorce two long years ago. A satisfied smile formed on my lips. I’m done cooking. I only need to wait for him. While waiting, I decided to take a bath. I should be presentable. I was applying makeup on my face when I heard his car outside. He’s here now. I know he won’t let me down. I rushed to apply my lipstick and went downstairs to welcome him. I welcomed him with a kiss on the cheek, but he looked away, so I only kissed his cheeks. That’s alright. What's important is that he came home early. “Dinner’s ready. Do you want to eat now or after you take a bath?” I asked. He glanced at me and said, “Now.” The smile on my lips widened. Now. He answered now, not later. “Okay. Let’s go.” He nodded and followed me into the dining room. As we were eating, I caught him staring at me. Is there some dirt on my face? “Why?” I asked. He shook his head and looked away. I unconsciously touch my face. Is he staring because I put on too much makeup? “You wore makeup today,” he mumbled. “Is it too much?” I worriedly asked. He shook his head. “No. It looks fine.” Really? I thought it bothered him. I looked down and ate. There’s a small smile playing on my lips. This is the first time he has complimented me after two years. “Do you have anything to do after this?” he suddenly asked. I looked up. “Nothing. I’ll wash the dishes afterwards. Why?” I asked. He looked at me and smiled a little. I felt like I wanted to cry. Did he smile at me? “Do you want to watch a movie?” I stared at him. Is he serious? “Of course, I would love to!” I said happily. He nodded, “Alright. Eat now; I will wait for you in the living room.”“You’re done?” I asked. He nodded, “Yes. I’ll wait for you there,” he said. I nodded, “Sure. I’ll be there in a minute.” He shook his head. “You need to eat. You’re getting skinnier,” I nod. When he left, I couldn’t help myself but cry with joy. Is he back? The one I love is back. I wipe the tears on the corner of my eyes. “How are you today?” he asked me while we were watching a random movie. “I’m fine. I visited Diane this afternoon,” I answered. “Diane,” I nodded. “Yes. Her condition is getting weaker. I’m worried about her,” I said and sighed. He looked at me. “I thought she was doing great?” I shook my head. That’s what she always tells me, but I know she’s lying. She doesn’t want me to worry about her. But I can't help it. “She lied. She can’t hide the fact that her disease is getting worse,” I answered. I heard him sigh and did not talk anymore. “How about you? How are you today?” I ask him, too. We’re talking casually now, but this is better than no communication, after all. “Quite tired. But I’m okay,” I nodded. “You finished your work early today,” I said and leaned back on the couch. “Yes. I wanted to come home—” he paused, so I looked at him. He’s looking at me now. And for the first time again after long years of longing for this kind of look. He did it again. I saw love in his eyes, even if it only lasted for a few seconds. “You look so beautiful,” he whispered and gently cupped my cheeks. I slowly closed my eyes and felt his warmth. He slowly pulled me closer to him and embraced me. He did not say a word; we just stayed that way. Then, slowly, he made me look at him. He brushed his finger into my lips as he looked directly into my eyes. My heart is beating so fast. I wanted to talk, but I can’t. The corner of his lips rose and captured my lips. His hand travelled to my nape to deepen his kiss. I was drowning in his kiss and touch. I couldn’t believe this was happening again. I kissed him back with the same ferocity while my hands were entangled in his hair. His hands travelled from my nape down to my spine. He caressed it slowly yet sensually. Until it reached my butt, he pulled me up. He made me sit down on his lap. I didn’t have the chance to react because he kissed me hard again. A loud moan escaped; I couldn’t help it. I can feel his huge member rubbing on my core. He’s turned on like I do. He bites my lips, causing me to groan. “Travis!” I moaned his name as he slowly thrust. I pulled his hair and followed his move. Another moan escaped as I arched my back. He’s giving me too much pleasure. I couldn’t think straight right now. His pleasurable touches and kisses make me weak. My nails dug into his back as he thrust harder and faster. And this time, I know. Even how mad and upset I am. When he touched me, I couldn’t be able to resist him. He is only the one I love, and I will love him forever. When I wake up in the morning, I find myself alone in bed—a smile forms on my lips. Last night was amazing. I get out of bed and decide to take a bath. I can’t hide my happiness now. He finally lets his guard down. I was about to go to the bathroom when I noticed a piece of paper above the table. What is this? My brow furrowed as I read the first word. Divorce Agreement? I read what’s written on the paper. My eyes widened in disbelief. No, he can’t do this to me. After what we had yesterday, he’s asking me to divorce? I dropped the paper on the table and read the note he left. “Sign it.”—Travis. No, no, he can’t be serious. I slowly sat on the floor and still couldn’t believe what was happening. My phone suddenly rang, and hope rushed into my veins. Maybe Travis is pranking me. I got my phone on the bed and looked at who was calling me. But my world crumbled when I saw that it was not him who was calling. It was an unregistered number. I still answered it, hoping it was him. “Hello?”“Hi. Is this Jasmine, Jasmine White?” A feminine voice answered from the other line. “Yes, I am,” I answered. She took a deep breath. “I’m Miss Rezende’s private nurse. I… I need to tell you something,” she stuttered. Huh? Is there something wrong with Diane? “I’m listening.” There’s a silence on the other line. “Miss?”“Hmm. Yeah, I’m still here. I don’t know how to tell you this, but Miss Rezende passed away three this morning.” What? Even Diane’s joking with me like this? “Maybe you’re mistaken, Miss—” she said no. “I know it’s shocking, but that’s the truth. Miss Rezende left a message for you. Doctor Jaime will give it to you when you come here. I’m sorry for your loss, Mrs. White.” I closed my fist tightly. No, not Diane. I can’t lose her, not the two of them today. “I’m coming today.”“Of course, ma’am.” I hung up the phone. I hurriedly took a shower and got dressed. When I arrived at the hospital, Doctor Jaime, Diane’s doctor, met me. He looked at me sadly as he handed me the letter. “I’m sorry,” he said and left. Tears slowly fell from my eyes. This is not a dream. She’s really gone. You’re so unfair, Diane. You were so lively yesterday when we were talking. Why did you leave me like this? I need you to know, Diane. Come back. I slowly approached his lifeless body. It’s painful to see her like this. I can’t imagine her lying in a casket. I will forever miss her. I opened the letter she left for me. “Dear my friend, Jasmine. I know that when you read this letter, I am no longer in this world. I know I’ll hurt you with my sudden death. Yesterday, I was happy that you visited me again. I had surgery this afternoon, but I hid it from you because I did not want you to worry about me. You already have a lot of problems, and I didn’t want to add more. There’s only a small chance for me to survive after my surgery.” I lost my strength. I slowly sat down on the floor. I never expected that all of this would happen to me now. “But I wanted to take a chance. I want to get better so I can help you with your problems. But it seems like I can’t do that anymore. I know you’re crying right now; I’m so sorry. I didn’t want this either. I'm writing this letter to tell you something I’ve been hiding for a long time. I hired someone to keep an eye on your husband three months ago. I kept this matter from you because I knew you wouldn’t agree. But I did it anyway.” I covered my face with my hands. I feel like I don’t want to go on. I’m afraid of what I might find out. I took a deep breath and mustered the courage to face it. “For me to rest in peace, I want to confess to you. Your husband is having an affair with another woman. I know you won’t believe me, but trust me, that’s the truth. Along with this letter, I left some pictures to prove my statements. If you still don’t believe it, you can visit the address at the end of this letter. You can’t be with him, Jasmine. It’s time for you to leave, leave his life permanently. He doesn’t deserve you. He’s an asshole for treating you like that. But knowing how stubborn you are, you might not follow my advice. And I still respect that. Even though I’m no longer in this world, I still support you. I will guide you from heaven. Love, Diane.”

Chapter 3 Chapter 3: Pregnant

Chapter 3: Pregnant Jasmine’s POV I slowly lose my strength. I feel weak and numb. I can’t accept this reality. My husband wanted a divorce, and my best friend died. I sob hard. Please tell me this is just a joke. A nightmare, I badly want to wake up now. Nothing could hurt more than this day. Why did all of this happen now? Why? What did I do to deserve all of this? “He’s having an affair,” I murmured weakly. My tears kept streaming down my face. I stared at the pictures attached to the letter. Diane was right. There’s another woman. But I’m still forcing myself not to believe it. I trust him so much. I gave him everything: my time, love, and care. I even stopped pursuing my dream just to be with him. Love is cruel, and love is very painful. And I know, at this moment, our love is slowly fading. My hands are trembling. I don’t know what to feel anymore. Angry, sorrow, disappointment, it’s all mixed. I hurriedly left the hospital. I want to see for myself, with my own eyes, how he betrayed me. “This is the place where they often meet,” Diane wrote at the end of her letter. I immediately went to that place. It is a five-star luxurious hotel. I wiped the tears from my eyes before entering, but the guards quickly blocked my way. “You’re not allowed to enter, ma’am,” One of them said. I shook my head. “I just want to see something. Please, just let me in,” I tearfully said. But they firmly said no and shook their heads. “That’s impossible, ma’am. The hotel is reserved tonight for VIP guests.” No. I need to know if he’s inside with his mistress. It is now or never. “But my husband is inside. I need to talk to him. Please, this is important,” I begged. They all shook their head again. “That’s impossible, ma’am. Please leave before we force you to. We don’t want to hurt you.” I shook my head and insisted on entering. They stopped me, grabbed both of my hands and escorted me outside. “What’s going on here.” Someone asked them. The guards stopped pulling me. “She wanted to get inside, madame.” One of the guards answered. I looked at the woman who spoke. But I was stunned by what I saw. Travis, he’s here—with her? I saw shock in his eyes, but it only lasted for a few seconds. I was about to speak when the woman beside him spoke. “Why are you causing chaos here?” she asked me. My gaze travelled to her hand. She was holding my husband’s arm. I couldn’t believe it. He betrayed me for so long. I feel foolish for believing he wouldn’t hurt me like this. I’d rather accept his cold and distant demeanour than see him having an affair with another woman. A thousand knives pierced into my heart. How could he? We’ve been in a relationship for eight years. And he wasted it. He damn ruined my trust. I don’t know if I can trust again. “Travis—” I called his name, but he looked away. The woman looked at him, “Do you know her?” She asked. Please don’t deny me. I prayed. But my world completely crumbled when he shook his head. He denied me. “No, I don’t know her.” He doesn’t know me? I’m his damn wife! Why would he do this to me? I was lost for words. I can’t even move. “Oh, maybe another crazy admirer,” she said and chuckled. “Alright. Let’s get inside. I’m starving.” He nodded and placed his hand on her back. I can’t believe him. He not only hurt me but also killed me in the worst possible way. When they got inside, I called his name again, hoping that we would look back and change his mind. But reality hit me hard. He never looked back. They slowly faded from my vision. I found myself sitting on the floor. I feel weak. Eight long years; this is how everything will end. My vision slowly blurred until the darkness took me. When I woke up, I found myself in the hospital. Pain and hatred, that’s all I feel. I despised my husband for betraying me. But I hate myself more for letting him hurt me like this. I glanced at the door when it suddenly opened. A woman entered. I froze when I recognised her. She’s Travis’s grandmother. I don’t have any idea why she’s here because before Travis and I started dating, she was already against our relationship. “I’m glad my grandson has finally come to his senses and decided to leave you.” I tightly pressed my lips together. I didn’t want to argue with her, so I looked away. “Is it painful, Jasmine? I told you before, you’re not worthy of my grandson.” I bit my inner lip. I know she hates me, but does she really have to come here just to mock and belittle me? I’m broken already because of his grandson’s infidelity. I lost my best friend today, and now this foolishness happened. What will happen next? Will I die? “You came from a low-income family, while my grandson? He’s the only heir of our empire. He’s successful, while you? Just a mere woman who’s depending on her husband's money.” That’s it! “With all due respect, Mrs. White, just leave. I know you don’t want me for your grandson. I understand that I came from a poor family. But watch out, you were saying. You’re incredibly insensitive!” she slapped my face hard. “You have the audacity to talk back. You’re just a social climber, bitch! What a gold digger! I don’t know how my grandson managed to be with you for eight long years!” That’s because he loves me. He loves me… “Leave. Just leave now!” I screamed. I want to go wild. Released all the pain I’m feeling right now. I saw her take a step back. “If you’re here to tell me this bullshit! You better just leave now, Mrs. White, while I still have some respect for you!” my hands are trembling with anger. If she won’t leave now, I might end up hurting her. “I will just leave if you will sign the divorce agreement. I know you will still be stubborn because you don’t want to leave my grandson.” I glared at her. “Give me that damn paper, and I will sign it in front of you!” I said seriously. She looked at me, shocked. “Really?” After what I saw, I no longer want to stay with his grandson. “Sign and take this money. Don’t show yourself to my grandson ever again.” I signed the divorce paper without saying anything and gave it back to her. I refused the money and lay back. “I don’t need your money,” I said coldly. She raised an eyebrow, “Oh well. It’s up to you.” After saying that, she left. When she’s gone, I can’t stop myself from crying. I pulled my hair and cried. I will end my agony here. I will leave him for good. “Miss Jasmine, are you alright?” I didn’t look at the nurse who just came in. I sobbed uncontrollably. I never thought this would happen. The marriage I desperately tried to save is ending in such pain. This is hard for me, but I must keep going. Diane said this is too much. For her to rest in peace, I must follow her advice. I need to leave to start a new life. I went back home the same day to get my belongings. I have nowhere to go because my parents died when I was little. The last person I can rely on is my best friend, Diane, but she’s gone now. I temporarily stayed at Diane’s house. They knew me well because I used to visit them during our college days. They still don’t know what happened to my Marriage. The only thing I told them was that I wanted to be with Diane until her funeral. This is too sudden for me and them. I felt Diane’s older brother on my shoulder. I looked at him. “Diane told me something before she underwent the operation,” he told me. “What is it?” I asked quietly. He nodded and looked at his sister in the casket. “She mentioned to me about your marriage. I know he hasn’t treated you well. So, Diane told me this was her last wish. She wanted me to help you when you need help,” he answered. Even in her final moments, she still thought of me. “She’s selfless,” I sighed. “I’m grateful that she became my friend. To fulfil her last wish to you, I will tell you when I need help.” He nodded. One week after Diane’s funeral. I suddenly felt dizzy and missed my period. I also noticed changes in my body, especially in my breast. I don’t want to think about it, but there must be a possibility that I’m pregnant. “Congratulations, Miss Jasmine. You’re two weeks pregnant.” My world almost crumbled. It has been two weeks since I found out about my husband’s infidelity. Since then, I haven’t heard any news from him. I closed my eyes tightly. In our eight years together, why did I get pregnant now?

Chapter 4 Chapter 4: Promises

Chapter 4: Promises Jasmine POV “I was pregnant. “I covered my face using my hands. I’m shaking, and I can’t stop sobbing. The only person I am with, with whom I can share my sadness, my pain, and my thoughts, is gone. My best friend died, and now, I am pregnant with Travis’ baby. I was so blind that I couldn’t think of him cheating on me. What about those promises? I feel weak, I don’t know how to get up, I’m so upset right now. I feel like the world is playing me for doing this to me. How could Travis do this? What about that night? How could he play me so well that I didn’t even get suspicious of him? I love Travis more than everything in this world, more than myself, but how could I possibly fix things when he started to ruin us? And now, I don’t know what to do. His Parents hated me so much that they couldn’t accept me. I just want my baby to have a Father, isn’t that right? My world was spinning so fast, I don’t hate this baby, I just hated the fact that I didn’t know earlier what he’s been doing to me. I wiped my tears and held my tummy. “I–I’ 'm sorry,” I covered my mouth. Damn it! What should I do now? I can’t do this alone. I get a glass of water and drink it. My heart aches, and I feel dizzy. I went to my room and lay down on my bed. I remember the divorce paper. It was her mom who gave it to me. Maybe Travis doesn’t love me anymore. And that woman who’s hand wrapped around his arm, that Girl my best friend referred to in her letter. I don’t want to get mad at her for hiding that truth from me. I—I can’t just accept that Travis threw what we had for years for her. I know I’m nothing compared to her. Her looks tell how rich she is and how Travis and her were really for each other. But why? Why do I have to experience this? Why does he need to make me feel this? “I love you Travis, I love you so much, I endure those years that you kept on ignoring me, when you forgot our anniversaries, how you treated me like I didn’t exist, but why do you have to make me suffer for years if you don’t love me anymore? If you’re already seeing someone?” I can’t help but cry all day. The divorce agreement that I signed is to prove that I am no longer his wife. Yes, I signed it without hesitation, but I still can’t deny that after what he did, I still love him. Yes, it’s hard to unlove someone I spend the rest of my life with. It’s hard to let go, but I’m so tired. I’m so mad at him for doing this to me. “Baby, I’m sorry you won’t have a complete family. But don’t worry—no matter what happens, I am here. I can do this without Travis, without her family. I’m sorry your mom kept on crying—it’s just that—I’m so hurt, baby. Just give me time to heal. I will do everything for you, for us. “I force myself to smile. My best friend was gone, and Travis and I were divorced. It’s only you and me now, baby. “I don’t have anything but you now, baby. Don’t worry; I won’t leave you. I will raise you. I will be your mother and father. “I smoothed my tummy and fixed myself afterwards. “I love you. I will never abandon or get an abortion just because we’re no longer together. You are my life now, and I will never let anyone hurt you. “I stood up while wiping my tears on my chicks. Travis has nothing to do with you now. And he doesn’t have the right to know that I am pregnant. He chose that woman over us. Then he should also know the consequences. My phone rang, but I didn’t answer it. It kept on ringing five times, but I wasn’t in the mood to answer it. I know he’s also mourning his sister’s death, and he just wanted to fulfil his sister’s wish before she died. But I don’t want to disturb anyone right now. Besides, Diego and I were not close, and I just saw him twice for years. His intention was to help me. Aside from making his sister’s wish come true, I don’t want to talk with anyone right now. I’m so tired of people coming and leaving. I don’t want to be left alone again. What I am experiencing right now is too much, and I don’t want to get involved with Diego. My phone stopped ringing, and I went to check it. He had six missed calls. I sigh while trying to figure out how to start again. After what happened, I rented a small apartment, which is the only thing I can afford right now. “Don’t worry, baby. I will find a job. I have to make a living and save money for us. “I couldn’t help but cry. This is not what is supposed to happen. “You are supposed to have a happy family. I’m sorry, and I am afraid of everything. I’m afraid that I won’t give you life and things in the future. But I promise I will do everything I can.” I let out a heavy sigh. “I love your father, but we can’t do anything about it right now-” I stood up and got my phone while my eyes swelled up with tears. I wiped my face and fixed my hair. I have to be brave; I have to be for my baby. But when I opened my phone, I regretted it in an instant. I sat down on the floor, holding my tummy. “They were engaged?” I covered my mouth, trying not to burst out crying. “How could you do this to me, Travis?”

Chapter 5 Chapter 5: Engagement Party

Chapter 5: Engagement Party Jasmine POV “Engagement party for Mr. Travis and Stacy.” That announcement pierced my heart. I laughed sarcastically, but deep inside, I wanted to cry. They are having fun while I am here suffering. He’s not the Travis that I met before. He changed a lot. I don’t even recognize him anymore. I made my way to get my handbag. I wore only a jacket. I think I’m not into myself right now. My mind and my heart are fighting. I didn’t want to go there, but my body had its own mind, and they were moving, trying to convince me to talk to him, to ask him so many different things, but I knew that he didn’t want to see me or talk to me. I just found myself standing in front of their mansion. I don’t want them to see me, and I know that they will never let me enter. I saw one of the maids, and I knew she recognized me. I once talked to her, and I am the reason why she stayed here for so long. I walked towards her, and I saw that she was giving me a sad expression. “Ma’am,” she uttered, but I just smiled. “Don’t tell them that I am here; I just want to see him,” I said. She was about to shake her head, but I gave him a begging look. “Please,” I held her hand, and she sighed. “But they won’t let you wear that; I have an idea,” she left me standing and went to the back of the house. I thought she left me but then she came back holding a maid dress. “Here, But please, ma’am, you have to leave before they can see you or else I’m dead,” she said worriedly. I smiled at her and nodded. “Don’t worry. You have nothing to do with me, and I won’t tell you to help me. Thank you,” I said, and she held my hand. “What are you still doing here?” We both stopped when someone talked behind our back. The maid turned around while I kept on my posture. “Uh- I saw one of the maids, and she hasn’t dressed up.” I heard her say that. “Turn around,” The bodyguard said, which made me feel afraid. “You know what? Don’t Interfere with us because we’re busy! Common, Damian. This girl is disturbing our work!” She said and grabbed me by my hand, and we walked faster. I thought the guy would follow us, but I just heard him cursing. “That was close. Here change, I will wait for you. Remember, don’t show it to them, please. I will be in big trouble if they find out that I am the one who let you in,” she said while I was wearing the maid dress. I know she’s scared. I went out of the room, and I saw her sweating. I held her hand, “Hey, don’t worry. I won’t tell, and I’ll be quick.” I said. She nodded and smiled. “I’m sorry, but please, I know you’re hurt because of sir Travis, but don’t make trouble. You deserve better, “she said while holding my hand. “I know,” I said in a sad voice. I took a deep breath. She told me to walk on the other side so they would not see me. “Be careful, “she said. I’m trying to avoid those who know me. “Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention now?” The event started, and I grabbed a serving plate. I stood in the corner where they couldn’t see me. “Let’s welcome our newly engaged Mr. Travis and Ms. Stacy! Congratulations to the both of you!” The Announcer said. My tears started to flow as they both started to show up wearing expensive suits and showing their smiles while Stacy’s hands were wrapped around Travis’s arm. All of them stood up and gave them a round of applause. “What can you tell each other?” The Announcer asked. Stacy grabbed the microphone while she was holding a glass of wine. “Let me talk first,” she said and laughed. I know she’s perfect. She has all the things that girls are dreaming of. Yes, I’m jealous. I’m angry. Seeing him smiling, which I had never seen for years, made me want to talk to him. “I think I’m lucky. I mean, Travis is a well-known businessman. But aside from that, He’s hiding something. “As she said that, she giggled. I bit my lower lips to stop myself from sobbing. I don’t want them to hear me crying. “He’s actually a sweet, caring and loving man. I couldn’t imagine my life without you, Travis, honey. You don’t know how happy I am today. I couldn’t wish for anything but to build a family with you,” she said and held his hand. Travis looked at her sincerely, as if they were really into each other. I wiped my tears. I’ve never seen him so in love before. How did I endure all of those things? Why am I so weak when it comes to him? All I did was love him, but I got hurt in return. Travis held Stacy’s hand and kissed it In front of everyone, which made them smile and clap for them. I held my tummy, looking in pain at what I saw. “I’m sorry, baby, I regret coming here. I shouldn’t come.” I turned around, but I stopped as soon as I heard his voice. I turned around and saw him looking at Stacy while everyone was waiting for his words. “No one could ever replace you in my heart. I’m always here for you.” I covered my mouth while crying when I realized that he had nothing to do with me. Now I know that he just played me. What we had was nothing. I couldn’t breathe properly because of what he said, but what made me even crazier was when Stacy kissed him on the lips, which made everyone shout. Then the serving plate slid to my hand, which made the people at the back look at me until I saw her look at me.