Unwanted
471 Words
*RILEY HARRINGTON'S POV*
“Wilden, why did you bring her here?” My voice shakes with anger and hurt. “How can you bring the woman you kissed on camera into our home?”
“It’s my house, Riley. I can bring whoever I want.”
The words knock the air out of me. This was _our_ home. I built it for him.
“Please tell me you’re not seeing her,” I beg. “We’re engaged. I was going to start planning the wedding.”
“I am seeing Briana Sullivan.”
“You’re leaving me for her?” Tears spill before I can stop them.
He shrugs. “I’m not leaving you. You can stay here. It’s not like you have anywhere else to go.”
“What does that mean? I’m your secret wife while she wears your ring and your name?”
He scoffs. “ Briana has everything I want. She’ll be the wife everyone knows about.”
“Worth nothing?” I gasp. “I won’t be your undercover lover while you flaunt her in public!”
That sets him off.“Don’t insult Briana. If you don’t like my terms, you know the way out.”
I sink onto the couch, voice trembling. “You really like her, don’t you?”
“She’s a better woman. She has a real job that helps my brand.”
“I can be useful too. Give me a chance.”
“You have no talents, Riley. My decision is made.” He straightens. “Help Mary pack your things into a guest room. Briana and I are taking the master bedroom.”
His words hit like a punch. Three years, my dreams, my career—all for this?
Without a word, I walk out, climbing the stairs without glancing at Briana on the couch.
I fall apart the moment I reach the room I’m being forced to leave. My heart feels like it’s shattered beyond repair. I’ve never felt more worthless.
---
Later, I lie on the guest bed, crying until there’s nothing left. Mary moves my few belongings between rooms, her face heavy with worry.
Heartbreak has drained me. His lies and insults wore me down. If he’s happier with her, what’s the point of fighting?
But now what? I have nowhere to go. My whole life revolved around Wilden. I’m broke and dependent on him for everything.
Mary sets down the last bag. “Riley, Briana asked to speak with you.”
My chest tightens. Why would she want to talk? She has him already.
“Tell that man-stealing w***e to go to hell,” I say bitterly.
Mary softens. “Maybe she just wants to clear the air. It could help.”
I shake my head. “There’s nothing for us to talk about.”
- Writer
