The Day My Wedding Ring Outshone His Empty Promises

Bianca Lewis had just graduated from a top-notch finance program at a university near Skyler Jackson's company. She had the vibrant energy and dreamy naivety typical of young women, along with a practicality that I respected. She had plenty of time to be by Skyler's side during my pregnancy. However, she lacked the perspective and grace that often come from growing up in a privileged environment.

I took the initiative to arrange our meeting. When Bianca first saw me, she was wearing an extravagant Victorian-style dress, a stark contrast to her usual attire. The fabric looked freshly purchased, an obvious sign that she had gotten it specifically for this occasion. Aside from the dress, her appearance was straightforward, reflecting the effort she had put into this encounter.

I sat across from her, noticing the slight tremor in her demeanor throughout our conversation. I took off my wedding ring and placed it on the table between us. I asked if she was aware that Skyler had a family. Her face turned ghostly pale, and after a long pause, she shook her head and claimed she didn't know.

I chuckled softly, choosing not to call out her lie. Before my pregnancy, I often visited Skyler's office after completing my design projects. Everyone there was aware of how Skyler, so authoritative in the business realm, would kneel to help me put on my shoes. Even if Bianca was new to the company, it seemed unlikely she was oblivious to my presence.

Rather than disgrace her, I chose to speak about things unrelated to Skyler and me. I shared stories about my success during my studies in the Netherlands and the business deals I had clinched through my own efforts. I told her that my accomplishments would never allow me to become the woman who destroys a family.

After our conversation, I picked up my bag and got into the car Skyler had arrived in to pick me up. Oblivious to what had transpired, he gently ran his fingers through my hair and asked, “Did you catch up with an old friend?”

Out of Skyler's view, I saved the audio recording of my chat with Bianca. “I was trying to help someone find the right path.”

Skyler stayed focused on the road and muttered, “My Caroline is truly kind.”

I looked at Skyler’s somewhat unfamiliar features. But Skyler, with me, there will be no chance for you to amend your ways. Once I'm fully prepared to make my exit, there will be no room for you in my world.