Truth Behind False Love

I reached out to my lawyer friend, Lily Parker and asked her to print two copies of the divorce agreement.

Lily hesitated for a moment, as if weighing her words.

"Victoria, about your mother's death… Something just doesn't sit right with me."

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"It all went too smoothly, didn't it? I had already planned how to fight the case if the culprit refused to confess." She paused, her brows knitting together. "But then he suddenly turned himself in. Sure, there was evidence, but it still feels too convenient—like something's off."

My heart clenched. A vague suspicion stirred within me, as if scattered fragments were beginning to form a clear line.

"Lily, can you help me trace an account?" I asked.

She shook her head. "I can't do that, but I know a private investigator who might be able to help."

Something unseen pulled me forward—a feeling that the truth was close, just out of reach, waiting to be exposed.

With the divorce papers in hand, I went to Zach's company.

The moment I stepped inside, I caught fragments of conversation drifting from the employees gathered near the entrance.

"Is she one of Mr. Hayden's friends? I heard she just returned from abroad. Honestly, I think she suits him better."

"I agree. She's so elegant—way more refined than his wife."

"Did you see her handbag? It's covered in diamonds. I can't even imagine how expensive it must be."

On the top floor, I stood outside his office. Through the door, I recognized his voice immediately.

"Kayla, it's been a month since I last saw you. I keep wanting to find an excuse to visit, but…"

"I know," Kayla answered. "I've been busy preparing for pregnancy. Matt doesn't like me going out alone."

"Is that so?" His voice faltered, laced with disappointment. He forced a chuckle. "You're going to be a mother—congratulations."

"Thank you," she said, her voice carrying a hint of laughter. "And about what happened three years ago… I couldn't have gotten through it without you."

"That's all in the past. As long as you're happy now, nothing else matters. I know you didn't mean to hurt anyone," he said

Kayla laughed softly, the sound curling at the edges. "You always said you'd be my knight, protecting me forever. I'm truly touched. Though, if Victoria knew, she probably wouldn't be too happy about it."

Even in casual conversation, she always managed to paint herself as the victim—as if she had endured unimaginable hardship while casting me as the villain.

But beneath her words, I caught something—three years ago.

Three years ago, my mother died in a hit-and-run. Shortly after, Kayla left for an overseas program. And then Zach proposed to me.

That was when everything began to fall apart.

My thoughts raced, pieces falling into place, yet I kept my composure as I pushed the door open.

Zach looked up, startled to see me. "Victoria? What are you doing here? You should be resting at home."

I smiled faintly, my gaze drifting to Kayla. "Just checking if my husband's office has anyone—or anything—that shouldn't be here."

Kayla flinched slightly, about to speak, but I turned away before she could.

"I called because I missed you," I said, keeping my tone light. "But you didn't answer."

Flustered, Zach grabbed his phone. Two missed calls from me flashed on the screen. I noticed how the ringer was still set to silent—he must have muted it while entertaining Kayla.

"Victoria, I didn't mean to ignore you," he said hurriedly. "I—"

"Wow, you keep such a close eye on Zach," Kayla cut in, her voice dripping with faux innocence. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "A man needs a little freedom, don't you think?"

"Thanks for the advice," I replied coolly. "But some men—no matter how closely you watch them—you'll never know what they're really thinking."

Zach grew more anxious. He rushed toward me, grasping my hand tightly. "I'm not like that," he insisted. "We're all friends—me, you, and Kayla…"

I smiled faintly, watching his panic with detached amusement. He wasn't worried about my feelings—he was worried about how I might retaliate against Kayla.