The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 12

**Chapter 12: The Last Time**

Four years past.

“Honey,” Nathaniel whispered softly, turning his gaze toward her, “If fate blesses us with a daughter, I hope she embodies everything that you are… gentle, compassionate, and with that unique way of perceiving the world.”

Serena’s laughter danced in the air, a sweet and tender sound that warmed the cool night around them. She nestled against him, her head resting comfortably on his chest, as they both gazed up at the vast sky, a canvas painted with stars.

It was the night following their wedding—a moment of bliss that marked the beginning of their journey as husband and wife. Just after Serena had donned her cap and gown, they had tied the knot. Now, they lay together on the open rooftop of their cozy cabin, cocooned in blankets, while the northern lights swirled above them, casting a magical glow over the scene.

“You’re already thinking about kids?” she teased, her voice light and playful, a hint of mischief in her eyes.

Nathaniel’s handsome features softened into a gentle smile, his expression brightening with a playful glint. He reached out and pinched her nose lightly, his touch sending a ripple of affection through her. “Not just yet, Serena. We’re still young and adventurous. I’ve just taken the reins of my mom’s company, and your father is nudging me to assist at Kline BioSolutions.”

He shifted closer, enveloping her in his warmth, planting a soft kiss on her cheek, lingering there as if he were trying to memorize the feel of her skin beneath his lips.

“But soon, I promise you,” he murmured, his voice low and sincere. “I dream of having at least two children—one little princess with that enchanting smile of yours… and a boy to match.”

Serena’s laughter bubbled up again, feeling the reassuring strength of his arms tighten around her. The northern lights shimmered overhead, casting a soft, ethereal glow that seemed to wrap around them, creating a memory she once believed would stretch into eternity.

Yet, now, that dream felt tainted, distorted by an unforeseen reality.

Never in her wildest nightmares had she envisioned facing this future alone.

As she drifted off to sleep, the memory of that promise haunted her—a reminder of yet another grand deception woven into the fabric of her marriage.

The chill of the night pressed against her, and she hugged her arms around herself tightly, as if trying to piece together the fragments of a past that felt irretrievably lost.

Then, gradually, she felt warmth enveloping her.

The cold receded just enough for her to sink deeper into slumber.

***

Hours later, the world began to stir.

When Serena finally awakened, her senses were greeted by something soft brushing against her.

She blinked, pushing herself upright, only to discover a blanket draped over her, a cozy barrier against the morning chill.

But she had no recollection of bringing a blanket with her.

The gentle morning light filtered through the large living room windows, casting a soft glow that contrasted sharply with the turmoil brewing within her.

Her brows furrowed in confusion.

Swinging her legs over the edge of the sofa, she froze as something brushed against her feet.

Slippers.

Her slippers.

The very same pair Nathaniel had bought for her during a trip to the mall just five months ago, the ones she had deliberately left behind in the villa, hoping to erase memories of him. Yet here they were, placed neatly at her feet as if he had never left.

A sharp wave of unease surged through her.

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