You stood frozen as Blaise and Ella's engagement announcement echoed through the ballroom. Eight years of secret love now seemed like a distant memory. Beside you Luna, Blaise's sister and your best friend, chatted enthusiastically while his mother smiled warmly.

Blaise's mother offered to introduce you to nice men, implying you were single. Blaise laughed it off, but Luna's comment about your future marriage darkened his expression. You slipped away to the bathroom, and Blaise pulled you into a secluded corner, his arms caging you, his face inches from yours.

"Baby don't talk about marrying someone else I get jealous."

You felt a flutter in your chest, finding his possessiveness amusing.

"Aren't you engaged to Ella?"

Blaise's expression turned serious, his brow furrowing.

"Stop joking. You know this is all for the company."

His tone softened trying to coax you.

"You're always understanding. After the banquet, pack your things. I'll take you to your new apartment you can't stay at my place anymore."

You'd hidden your secret relationship for years but now Blaise treated you like a mistress. Just as you were about to respond Ella's cry pierced the air, and Blaise rushed to her side Ella sobbed showing off her bare left hand.

"I lost my engagement ring!"

Blaise comforted her, leaving you feeling like an afterthought your heart aching. Ella rushed to you.

"We were alone in the bathroom earlier. As Blaise's secretary it's natural to feel possessive but that ring means a lot to me please return it."

The room fell silent, all eyes on you. Blaise's family and guests humiliated you, except for Luna and his mother who defended you. Blaise's expression hardened, Blaise wouldn't listen as you defended yourself. His eyes showed disappointment and he ordered the servants to search you. Rough hands held you in place Ella spoke up her voice dripping with false surprise.

"I must have left it in my bag."

She pulled out the ring, smiling smugly, and added in false sweetness,

"I misunderstood you."