Chapter 5

I was too afraid.

I was afraid this dreamy, fairy-tale love would fade like fireworks, while I would be the fool, trying desperately to keep them burning.

Greed knew no bounds. The more I had, the more I wanted.

Even after we got married, Xander let rumors about him and Haley spread everywhere.

Living in this secret marriage kept me on edge, constantly nervous. Every time there was a hint of gossip, I would hide in the bathroom and cry in secret.

Then I would dry my tears and put on a smile. I would ask him what he wanted to eat, acting like nothing had happened.

Even though my dad and my childhood friend Russel were outraged for me, I just could not walk away from this doomed relationship.

I kept convincing myself that Xander needed me. He needed me to make his favorite buffalo wings while he practiced his shots.

He said no one could make buffalo wings like I did.

I let myself believe that it meant no one could ever replace me in his heart.

No one could ever r