Echoes of a Shattered Vow

When Lillian got her visa, it was the day of the Ruiz Group's annual gala.

As part of the Ruiz family, she had to attend it.

After slipping into the evening gown, she stared at the elegant figure in the mirror. For a moment, it felt like she had stepped into another world.

In her past life, after she lost her legs, Elton kept her hidden away.

Since then, she hadn't worn a dress this beautiful or attended such grand events. Chasing Elton had cost her so much.

As she stepped out, Elton's gaze lingered on her until Jill tugged his arm.

He looked away, and the three rode to the gala together, drawing every eye as they arrived.

Whispers followed.

"Did you hear about Elton's big confession at Jill's birthday bash? They say it was super romantic, but it was for Jill, not Lillian. How did she handle that?"

"No way. Everyone knows Lillian and Elton have been promised to each other since they were kids. The Ruizs raised her like their own. How could he switch to someone else?"

"Something's off with Lillian, too. She's usually glued to Elton, but today she's acting all chill. Is she giving up?"

"Maybe Jill swooped in and stole him. Look at her. She's got game, pushing his childhood sweetheart out of the picture."

A sharp crack cut through the chatter. Everyone froze, turning to see Elton's glare, and lowered their heads.

The man had crushed a wine glass in his hand after hearing someone call Jill the third wheel.

"Elton, your hand!" Jill yelped, prying open his bloodied palm, and saw glass shards embedded in it.

Unperturbed, Elton took her hand with his uninjured one and strode to the center of the room.

"Let me make this clear one last time," he declared. "I never agreed to Lillian being my fiancée. That engagement was never my choice. Jill is the love of my life and the only future Mrs. Ruiz."

He glared at the gossipers, his voice icy. "If I hear anyone badmouth her again, they're out of the Ruiz Group. Understood?"

The crowd nodded nervously. "Yes, sir. It won't happen again."

Elton nodded, comforting Jill before tending to his injured hand.

Lillian watched from the sidelines, a pang of bitterness hitting her as she heard his fierce defense of Jill. She slipped out of the gala and walked home alone.

Back at the house, she packed away every trace of Elton—photos, mementos, and gifts she'd once cherished. She stuffed them into boxes for the trash truck.

Then she began packing her personal belongings into a suitcase.

The next day, Elton noticed. "What are you doing? I told you, you don't have to leave."

He stood in the doorway, staring at her coldly and waiting for an answer.

Lillian didn't hold back anymore.