CHAPTER 100 THE AFTERMATH

Ethan took a deep breath, trying to quell the storm of anger and sadness that raged inside him. His mind was a battlefield, the memories of Claire and Bianca clashing like rival armies. He thought of the gentle way Claire had smiled at him, the way she had made him feel like he was the only man in the world. He thought of the fiery passion he’d shared with Bianca, the nights they’d spent tangled in each other’s arms. But now he knew the truth. The two women were one and the same, two sides of the same coin. The memories played out in his mind like a cruel montage, each cherished moment now tainted with betrayal. He remembered their first date, Claire’s eyes sparkling with laughter, her hand resting in his. He remembered the nights they’d stayed up talking, sharing secrets and dreams. And now, those memories felt like a lie. Every stolen glance, every whispered word, every tender touch had been a manipulation, a trick designed to keep him in the dark. His blood boiled as he replayed