When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie)

There came the Patterson Group's anniversary party, a grand event that seemed designed to quash the swirling rumors. The company had even purchased several press releases, ready to go out, painting Clyde and me as the picture-perfect couple.

However, leading up to the event, I hadn't received the gown and emerald jewelry Clyde had promised. With no other choice, I returned home, where Clyde had kept his word. There was no need for remote gestures to receive a gown and jewelry this time.

I selected a cocktail dress I'd bought for our engagement but never had the chance to wear, deciding against any additional jewelry. The necklace Clyde gave me was enough.

When Clyde arrived at the Patterson Mansion to pick me up, his frown was inevitable. "Why are you dressed like that?"

He was wearing a modern suit, seemingly expecting it to match the gown he'd forgotten to give me. I didn't bother asking about it.

"Let's not keep everyone waiting," I said, linking my arm with his, which eased his mood.

My attire was extravagant, a custom design by a renowned international designer intended for post-wedding festivities that never happened.

As we arrived at the event, whispers filled the air. Our outfits clashed dramatically with Clyde's in green, mine in burgundy. Yet, as the evening's hosts, no one dared comment openly.

Clyde quickly mingled, a natural in social settings, while I excused myself, claiming to feel unwell. My pale, frail appearance silenced any critics, allowing me some peace.

That was until Kayla arrived, drawing all eyes with her emerald gown and jewelry, making it clear they were for her.

I couldn't help but laugh internally, seeing Clyde conversing across the room, oblivious to the unfolding drama. Was that his way of making a statement at the expense of the company's image?

As I sipped my drink, pretending to ignore the surrounding murmurs, Kayla approached, clearing her

throat deliberately. "Melanie, you et

decided to wear that? You know you're Mrs. Patterson, don't you?" she taunted, surrounded by her clique, including Isla.

Their snide remarks ranged from my outdated dress to the lack of proper jewelry, insinuating Clyde's favoritism toward Kayla.

Before I could respond, Clyde was by my side, his demeanor dark as he addressed the uninvited critics. "It seems some guests have forgotten their manners. Who dares insult my wife at a Patterson Group event?"

His righteous defense surprised everyone, given the well-known strains in our marriage.

With tears welling up, Kayla turned to Clyde. "They're my friends."

Clyde's frustration was palpable, especially given the occasion. Yet, he didn't scold Kayla. Instead, he focused on the last to speak.

"My wife's necklace, a gift from my college days, holds more value than any jewelry here," Clyde stated, silencing the crowd and inadvertently sparking rumors of our 'true love.'

Kayla's tears fell, but her defiance was clear, even as she accused me of being indifferent to Clyde's affections, pointing out my absence of a wedding ring at such a crucial event.Property belongs to Nôvel(D)r/ama.Org.

Clyde's stern rebuke, addressing her formally for the first time in my presence, shocked everyone, especially when the Patterson Group's employees knew the situation.

As Kayla stood defiant, tears streaming, she clung to her narrative, accusing me of being in it for the money, oblivious to Clyde's genuine feelings.