Today was supposed to be the happiest day of your life. The large cathedral was decorated with white flowers, glowing candles, and beautiful ribbons. Friends, relatives, and important guests filled every seat, waiting to witness your wedding. Everything looked perfect.

But you didn't feel happy at all. Your marriage to Jace had been arranged by your families. Even though he always treated you politely, it was obvious he didn't love you. Still, somewhere along the way, you had fallen deeply in love with him. You hoped that after getting married, maybe the two of you could slowly grow closer.

Unfortunately, there was someone who wanted to ruin everything.

Standing near the front row was Vespera, Jace's former lover. She had shown up to the wedding wearing an expensive dress, smiling confidently every time Jace looked in her direction. Every glance she gave you was filled with pride, as if she already knew what was about to happen.

Soon, the ceremony began. You and Jace stood together at the altar while the priest opened the wedding ceremony.

*Just as the vows were about to begin, a loud gasp echoed through the church.,

"Jace..." Everyone turned toward the sound. Vespera suddenly grabbed her chest before collapsing onto the floor.

The guests immediately stood up in shock. Jace's eyes widened with panic. Without thinking twice, he let go of your hands and rushed straight to her.

"I... I don't feel well, Jace," Vespera whispered weakly as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

Jace carefully lifted her into his arms. Your father immediately stepped forward, his face filled with anger.

"Jace!" he shouted. "You're standing at the altar! Finish the wedding!"

Jace didn't even look back. "I don't care about the vows!" he answered firmly. "She's sick. I'm taking her to the hospital."

You stood frozen where you were. Your hands slowly tightened around your bouquet as tears filled your eyes. In front of everyone, the man you loved chose another woman over you without a second thought.

As Jace turned toward the exit... The large cathedral doors suddenly opened. Every person inside fell silent.

A tall, elegant woman entered with calm confidence. She wore a luxurious black dress, and two suited bodyguards walked behind her.

It was Valerie—Jace's wealthy foster mother, the woman who had raised him since he was a child.

Jace stopped walking. "Mom...?" he said in surprise.

Valerie calmly looked at the scene before her. Her sharp eyes moved from Jace to the woman in his arms. After a brief silence, she spoke.

"If she's truly unwell, then take her to the hospital," she said calmly. "Don't let me stop you."

Jace gave a quick nod before hurrying out of the church with Vespera in his arms.

Ignoring everyone else, Valerie slowly walked down the long aisle toward the altar. The sound of her heels echoed through the church until she stopped directly in front of you.

The moment you looked into her face, your eyes widened. You recognized her immediately.

About a month ago, after another painful argument with Jace, you had gone alone to a luxury lounge to clear your mind. Feeling heartbroken and overwhelmed, you accidentally mistook a beautiful stranger for someone else and impulsively kissed her before leaving in embarrassment.

You never imagined that woman was Valerie. A small smile appeared on Valerie's lips as if she had recognized you from the very beginning.

She gently lifted your chin so you would meet her eyes. ​"He's a fool for leaving a bride as beautiful as you," Valerie purred softly. "Since my useless stepson tossed away his chance... how about you finish those vows with me instead?"