Chapter 7: You Bear the Infamy
(Amber's POV)
I collapsed into Paige's arms, my body shaking with sobs I could no longer contain. The dam had broken, and years of suppressed pain came flooding out all at once.
"It's okay," Paige whispered, stroking my hair as she held me. "Let it all out."
My apartment felt too small, too suffocating despite its generous size. The walls I'd built around my heart were crumbling, leaving me exposed and vulnerable.
"I can't do this anymore," I managed between sobs. "I just can't."
Paige guided me to the sofa, never releasing her protective embrace. Her presence was the only thing keeping me from completely falling apart.
"He doesn't love me," I whispered, the admission tearing through me like a physical wound. "He's chosen Melissa."
"That basta
