Love Brewed Bitter

"We shouldn't say this, but when Aidan's startup crashed, Lorelei said she'd sell liquor to bail him out. He didn't want her to. She went ahead anyway and made three million in three years," Callum replied.

"That much? From selling drinks?" Isabella gasped.

Callum scoffed, "No way. Drinks don't pay that much."

Isabella pressed, "So, where did she get the money?"

The room fell silent. They all assumed I'd sold my chastity.

Slander was cheap, but words could ruin one's life.

I stared at Aidan. He just remained silent. His lips pressed into a thin line.

Isabella clung to him. "Sorry, I didn't mean to pry, but a good man like you shouldn't marry someone so..."

She didn't finish her words, but everyone knew what she meant.

This moment killed the boy who had broken down the warehouse door and braved flames to save me. What was left was a tech hotshot who was too good for a no-degree, ex-barmaid like me.

Back when loan sharks came knocking, I took a blow for Aiden. He begged me to find a way, and I went to sell liquor. Touched, he swore he'd marry me in style one day.

I turned to leave, but someone piped up. "I saw her at work once, going upstairs with some guy."

I turned back to see Aidan's twisted face, as if he was eager to tear me down.

My ears rang, and my heart pounded with rage. I stormed in, and every eye snapped at me. They were surprised to see me there.

With a sullen face, I walked to Aiden's side.

He stood up with an innocent look. "Lorelei? What are you doing here?"