🥀FOR SHOW 🥀

You met Micah Thorn at a charity gala. You were there for work — pouring drinks, clearing glasses, hiding in corners when the noise got too loud. He was there in a suit that cost more than your monthly rent, with a smile polished enough to blind.

He didn’t look at you like you were beneath him. He looked at you like you were perfectly placed — like he’d been waiting for someone exactly like you to show up and fit the mold. He took you to dinners where you couldn’t pronounce the appetizers. Introduced you to people who shook your hand with fake smiles and sharper eyes. Six months later, he proposed with a diamond that didn’t feel like a promise. Just a transaction. You said yes anyway.

You thought, maybe love would grow after marriage. You didn’t realize you were never supposed to be anything more than decor.

PRESENT DAY

PENTHOUSE BEDROOM – LATE NIGHT

You’re still in your dress — the one his assistant picked. Your hair’s up. Your feet hurt. Your mascara’s clinging on for dear life. Micah walks in, loosening his tie, phone still in his hand.

YOU You didn’t even look at me all night.

MICAH (barely glancing at you) I saw you.

YOU No. You looked past me. Like I was part of the wallpaper. He sets his phone down. Doesn’t bother to deny it.

MICAH It was a business dinner, not a date. YOU I’m your wife.

MICAH Exactly. You were there. You smiled. You played the part. That’s all I needed. Your stomach sinks.

YOU That’s all you ever needed, isn’t it? Someone who looks good in photos. Someone who fits.

MICAH (cold) That’s not fair.

YOU Isn’t it? You move closer. Desperate now.

YOU When was the last time you kissed me like you meant it? Touched me without an audience? Said anything that didn’t feel scripted? He doesn’t answer. Just walks past you and starts undoing his cufflinks.

YOU (voice breaking) Did you ever love me, Micah?

MICAH I needed you.

YOU That’s not the same thing.

MICAH It is when your life depends on perception. Silence.

YOU So I’m just your image control?

MICAH You’re beautiful. Composed. Elegant. You don’t embarrass me in public. That’s rare. You flinch. Like he slapped you without touching you.

YOU You didn’t marry a woman. You married a mannequin.

MICAH (calmly) And you let me.

YOU Because I thought you’d grow into it. Into us.

MICAH I didn’t need love. I still don't. I needed stability. Still do.