The Day I Chose Differently

A sharp gasp. Cold air filled my lungs as my eyes snapped open. I was in the familiar leather armchair of the Vanderbilt library, sunlight streaming in. June 10th. The day I was to choose my bride.

Just moments ago, or so it felt, I was pushed from a penthouse balcony.

The rain slicked my face; Seraphina' s sneering expression, Leo' s hands, then her final, venomous whisper: "You shouldn't have chosen me, Ethan. You were always too weak."

Then, darkness swallowed me whole.

I remembered every manipulated moment-the fake accidents, the endless lies, the plundered fortune, my shattered heart.