Sophia froze, her body trembling as the cold wind lashed against her. Just as she was about to let herself go, a faint flutter inside her stopped her.
She gasped, her hand instinctively moving to her stomach.
The baby.
Her baby.
Her knees buckled, and she collapsed onto the rooftop, sobbing uncontrollably. The life inside her—the tiny heartbeat that she was now responsible for—brought her back to reality. How could she even think of taking not just her life but this innocent one too?
"I'm so sorry," she whispered through her tears, clutching her stomach as if to shield the fragile life growing within her. "I'm so sorry."
For what felt like an eternity, Sophia sat there, the city lights blurring through her tears. The realization hit her like a tidal wave.
She had spent years living for Ryan, pouring every ounce of herself into a marriage that was built on lies. She had allowed herself to be a shadow, forgotten, unloved. But now, it wasn’t just about her anymore.
Wiping her tears, Sophia forced herself to stand. Her legs wobbled, but she steadied herself, breathing deeply as the cold air filled her lungs. She couldn’t give up—not now. If no one else cared for her, she would care for herself and her baby.
As she made her way back home, her heart still ached, but a small spark of resolve began to flicker within her. By the time she reached her house, the lights were on, and Ryan’s voice drifted from the living room, mingled with soft laughter.
Sophia hesitated at the door, her hand hovering over the handle. She could hear him talking on the phone.
"Yeah, it was great catching up with everyone. Oh, Hannah? I just dropped her home. She's much better and is hosting a party tomorrow. Sophia? I’ll bring her along—might as well make her see the outside world for once."
The words, though cutting, didn’t have the same power to break her this time. She pushed the door open and stepped inside.
Ryan glanced up, his eyes dilating slightly like he had seen a ghost at her disheveled appearance.
"Where have you been? And what’s with the mess? You couldn’t bother preparing me dinner?"
“How was work? I thought you already had dinner.” Sophia asked instead.
"You saw me busy at the hospital taking care of your sister. I didn't eat besides, you know how much I love your cooking.”
“You've never told me that so I wouldn't know,” Sofia responded.
Ryan walked over and Sofia walked backwards. When he saw her reaction he paused, concern etched on his face.
“Are you feeling sick?” He asked but it only felt like mockery to Sofia.
How could he be sweet and kind in private while he talked ill about her to her sister?
Pathetic!
Sophia’s hands clenched into fists as anger bubbled up inside her. But she remained quiet.
Seeing her lack of interest in what he was saying, Ryan went on.
"Also, Hannah fell sick make sure you check on her.” He followed her as she entered their bedroom. “Your parents are throwing her a welcome party tomorrow and they called saying we need to be there.”
Of course!
Hannah was Sophia’s talented step-sister whom her father brought in after the death of her mother. He remarried a few months later and has paid attention to only Hannah since then. It's been like she isn't even their real daughter.
After having felt neglected, she went to stay with her grandmother but she fell sick and now Sophia had to return to her father's house, and let's just say no one has been thrilled with her return.
Getting married to Ryan felt like an escape for her. Until she realized she had just been warming Hannah’s bed.
Sophia didn’t respond, her hand resting protectively over her stomach as she walked past him.
"Did you hear me, Sophia?" Ryan called out, his tone sharp.
She paused at the foot of the bathroom door and turned to look at him. For the first time in years, her gaze was steady.
"I’m tired, Ryan."
He frowned, clearly not expecting the calm indifference in her voice.
"You’re always tired. Tomorrow, make sure you’re ready for the party. Hannah invited you, and it’s important to her. It will be a great chance for you to show everyone you two get along.”
Sophia nodded once before walking into the shower. She didn’t argue, didn’t defend herself. Ryan knew she hated meeting her family because they always treated her like an outcast but he insisted anyway.
It was obvious he would do anything to please Hannah.
Including sacrificing Sophia’s peace.
Once she was done bathing, she entered the blankets but was shortly joined by Ryan.
A habit that used to melt her heart now felt like chains dragging her to sink.
“I missed you.” He reached down to kiss her but she turned her face away making his lips touch her cheeks.
“I am tired,” Sophia said.
Ryan hesitated for a moment but only sighed. “Alright, go to sleep,"
Sophia turned around, feeling a weight settle beside her as Ryan pulled her in his arms with her back touching his chest.
“You need to learn a lot Sophia, but don't worry Hannah is willing to teach you.” He said proudly.
Sophia closed her mouth tightly to not let the sobs echo in the entire room.
She knew the party would be hell for her.
