9 BIRTHDAY BETRAYAL

KAREN'S POV With my silver shoe that screamed luxury, I walked down the aisle in my mermaid attire, properly fitted through the bodice and hips, flaring out dramatically around my knee. Flowing behind me was a train, a long and elegant that enhances the overall effect, added a touch of drama and regal elegance. The bodice was intricately designed for a romantic and luxurious feel. My neck was not left bare, as I used a sweetheart neckline, accentuating my decolletage. The bodice was overlaid by an embellished lace for a romantic and textured look. The back was cut low with Lace applique for a touch of allure. The skirt had layers of luxurious fabric, such as satin, silk, creating a voluminous and flowing skirt. Accompanying the skirt was a cascading lace, beading that gradually faded as it reached the flare of the skirt. The skirt flares out dramatically, creating a stunning and feminine silhouette. A defined waistline was added to accentuate my figure. I also had a veil to complement it. A Cathedral-length veil for added drama and sophistication. My wedding attire was ivory off white for a classic and timeless look. It had a modern twist. Some blush was added to undertone a romantic feel. For my jewelries, Max had them shipped in from Italy. My subtle drop earrings made me look like a queen in a magnificent palace. Delicate bracelet adorned my wrist, for a touch of sparkle. My silver heels made my outfit more pronounced. My skin tone popped out more than before. I made a beautiful bride as I walked down the aisle. The church immediately turned their head to see me. I understood that the crowd were eager to see me. I saw max standing by the priest, with a smile on his face. He watched from a distance just like others. The ceremony took place in a quiet church, where everyone minded their own business. After exchanging the vow, what's next? We were pronounced as husband and wife. Everyone, excluding Max's parents, smiled and applauded us without any other evil thoughts. The ceremony was shortly brought to an abrupt end when the music was stopped just to add a few more announcements. Gifts came in, from different people I never expected. They were all ready to celebrate with us with love while Max's parents merely sucked. After the wedding, Max became suddenly strange. His attitude and approach to things took a drastic turn. I began to wonder if I had done anything wrong. But, I had no fault. All accusations pointed to Max, who was too busy to decode his behavior. He listened more to his mother, who felt it was right to use me as a slave. At various family gatherings, my mother-in-law, who I took to be my own mother, treated me like trash. Yet, I gave her the necessary respect. I vividly remember when they were celebrating their 30th year anniversary, my mother-in-law gave their house help with special instructions. She was instructed to only serve the guest while I struggled to prepare for meals all alone. I took the job boldly, not minding my position at work. Max had become sour. Rather than talk to his mother, he supported her in using me as her personal errand lady. In the midst of preparing meals, I had a minor accident. “Not only are you a gold digger, but also reckless and careless. Please, clean the oil before anyone steps on it.” My mother-in-law instructed me after I spilled oil on my legs and floor. She turned blind eyes to the injury I've sustained. Max, on the other hand, laughed it off while he made fun of me over a glass of wine with friends. I had no idea of the sudden change in Max. Bur, he was no longer the man I met three years back. I sobbed quietly and cleaned the floor before tending to my injuries. Maybe Max changed his behavior because he started seeing Alexa again. It was barely six months after our wedding when I discovered Max had been keeping a secret from me. I never imagined that he could cheat on me in our marriage. I thought he was pure and without any hidden secret. I was however proved wrong on the night of our sixth month anniversary. After a romantic dinner and a fun night, he fell asleep right beside me on the bed. It was not until five minutes after, when his phone buzzed. Initially, I didn't want to pick his phone, but the buzzing noise kept disturbing me. I picked up the phone and answered the call. It was from Alexa. I was about to speak up when she said, “can you come over? I still can't get over the magic of your touch. I miss you.” She said, I was shocked and was already in tears by the time she ended the call. She was probably about to sleep when she made the call or unintentionally made the call. That night, I went through his phone and saw a series of messages between Alexa and Max. There, I realized they had a thing going on between them. I kept quiet and continued to observe them, while feigning to be ignorant. I made up my mind to get in touch with Alexa first. “And, how dare you accuse me of having an affair with your dirty little husband? Who is your husband?” She said boldly. “You know who my husband is, so stop pretending. You know what this can do to your career if it leaks. Be warned.” I warmed her and left her apartment angrily. On a normal day, I would never have done something like that, but I discovered that I actually needed to stand up for myself, more. Rather than see any changes, Alexa and Max took their relationship to another level. Max would dress up and courageously inform me that he has a date or dinner with Alexa. He fully made the affair a public secret. I could not ask Max's parents for intervention, because they were not in support of our affair from the start. Silently, I suffered and watched my husband become someone's business and property. I was totally helpless. One week to my birthday, I made arrangements on how to make it a memorable one for myself. I told Maxwell about it, but he ignored me. It was my 30th birthday and I had sincerely wished Max would celebrate with me. However, I was more than disappointed when I saw the heartbreaking headline. Max was supposed to be at home with me, celebrating my day, but he was seen with another lady at the airport. Alexa had just arrived in town after two years of vacation. Max, who had missed her greatly, dumped our family birthday dinner just to meet his mistress. At that point, I realized that it's either I let go of the relationship and live, or stay and suffer. I made up my mind and sent the message to Max. He got the message loud and clear, but thought I was joking about it. I guessed he informed his mum, who in turn did her usual thing by embarrassing me on the phone. She had called me up almost immediately and threatened to get me arrested for defamation, if I tried to reveal what I know to the public. I ignored her rants and went on to pack my things after my birthday went sour. I woke up feeling terrible from heart ache and headache. I had gone to bed the previous night with a heavy heart, messed up mascara and a ruined birthday. My happy mood changed and everything became suddenly dark for me. Determined not to be weighed down by Max and his family. I contacted my lawyer and narrated my ordeal to her, even though I have nothing to lose since I've lost everything. My lawyer assured me of victory and freedom from the captivating hands of Max and his family. The following day, I got an email from Max's lawyer. He had sent me an offer of ten billion dollars not to file for divorce. It was a big offer as I barely had five thousand dollars in my account. After my marriage with Max, I lost my job with all the benefits that came with it. Max and his family became my source of financial aid, which made them more ruthless in dealing with me.