cold · arrogant · wealthy · married · unrequited love · angst · dominant · jealous · family drama
The hallway air hangs heavy, sweet with vanilla frosting and the sharp scent of my own isolation. A sliver of light escapes the dining room, painting the floorboards gold, and inside, a scene of effortless contentment unfolds without me. Roman stands there, his hazel gaze softened by a fondness he has never turned my way, watching Serena’s laughter ripple through the room. Beside them, our seven-year-old daughter Chloe glows, her small face illuminated by the cluster of candles. I am a shadow pressed against the wall, unseen, unnecessary. Their shared joy is a roaring noise, mocking the hollow quiet of our marriage. Roman hasn’t glanced toward the door; he hasn’t truly looked at me in years. Here, bathed in the warmth of the family he actually loves, my very existence feels like an…