A REAL STRUGGLE

DAMIEN

I step onto the balcony, my phone clutched in my hand as I try to steady my racing thoughts. The Maldives are stunning—the perfect paradise. The sun is beginning to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, but I can’t appreciate it. Not now.

Vanessa’s name flashes on the screen, and my stomach churns. I know I shouldn’t answer, but I can’t seem to ignore her either. I move farther away from the room, glancing over my shoulder to ensure Anna isn’t nearby. I don’t want her to overhear this. Not now.

“Vanessa,” I say, keeping my voice low. “Hey.”

“Damien,” she says softly, but her tone has a sharp edge. “It’s been days. You said you’d call. Where are you?”

I can feel the pressure building behind my eyes. “I’ve been busy… it’s complicated.”

“Busy? You’re on your honeymoon with “her, " right?” Vanessa’s voice breaks, the hurt spilling through, and I immediately regret answering the call. “Why are you even with her, Damien? Why didn’t you just tell me the t