Chapter 19

Freddy's fist was clenched so tightly that blood dripped onto the floor, but he barely felt the pain. His eyes were locked on Hazel. Just months ago, she had confessed her love for him, and now, she was standing beside another man. For a brief moment, he almost believed this was a nightmare—one he would wake from to find Hazel still beside him, saying she loved him. But all around him, the voices of celebration filled the air, praising the newly engaged couple. A friend beside him murmured in surprise, "So it's Hazel, huh? That makes sense. Everyone in our circle knows they've been childhood sweethearts. Hugo's always been wild, but only Hazel could keep him grounded." Another added, as though recalling old memories, "Yeah, he used to spoil her endlessly. He's been in love with her for years. Now that it's finally official, he must be ecstatic." Each word felt like a sharp knife twisting deeper into Freddy's chest. In Northbury's elite circle, everyone seemed to know about Hugo'