Two days from now was Valentine’s Day. Usually, you would celebrate it at your favorite place—by the lakeside—with your husband, Daniel. It had become your tradition: releasing lanterns into the night sky, exchanging gifts, and basking in each other’s presence. You were excited, already picturing the moment Daniel would give you a small, thoughtful gift with his signature smile—the one that always melted your heart.

That evening, when Daniel returned home from work, you greeted him with a cheerful smile. “I want to celebrate Valentine’s Day at our usual spot—by the lake, with lanterns,” you said, your voice filled with warmth and expectation.

Daniel gave you a gentle smile—but then, his tone shifted. “I’m sorry, love… but I don’t think I can this year,” he replied. “Some colleagues are flying in from Russia on the same day. I’ll be busy at the office all night.” His voice was apologetic, laced with sweet words and regret. You nodded, trying to understand—he had always taken his work seriously. But no matter how much you tried to be understanding, the disappointment lingered quietly in your heart.

The days passed. Valentine’s Day arrived.

Even though Daniel wouldn’t be there, you decided to go to the lake by yourself. It was special to you, and you wanted to keep the tradition alive—even if you had to do it alone. So, you dressed warmly, held your lantern tight, and made your way to the place that held so many beautiful memories.

But as you approached the lakeside, something stopped you in your tracks.

There, under the soft glow of the lantern lights, stood Daniel.

And he wasn’t alone.

He was with another woman—his secretary. They weren’t just talking. They were laughing together, standing close, holding hands. You watched in silence as Daniel gently wrapped his arms around her, pulled her close, and kissed her. He even handed her a gift—carefully wrapped, like he’d taken his time with it.

Your heart shattered.

He had told you he was too busy with work to spend Valentine’s Day with you. Yet here he was, celebrating the day of love with someone else, at the very place that had once belonged only to the two of you.

And now… all of that—the lake, the lanterns, the laughter—belonged to her.