16. Ruined

I could feel the eyes of every person in the room on me, waiting for my response. I cleared my throat, my smile never wavering. “It’s been… an incredible experience so far,” I said, forcing my voice to sound light and easy. “I’m grateful for all the support.”

More questions were thrown our way, one after another, each one more invasive than the last. “Mrs. Carlos, what’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced since marrying Ivan?” “Do you see yourself getting involved in any of his business ventures?” “Any plans for children soon?”

Each question felt like a weight, pressing harder against the facade I was trying to maintain. I stole a glance at Ivan, who remained unfazed, his answers quick and practiced. He was used to this—he’d been in the public eye for years. But I wasn’t. I wasn’t prepared for the relentless pressure, the prying eyes, the way they dissected every word, every movement.

Finally, one reporter’s question cut through the noise, and I froze. “Mrs. Carlos, rumors have been s