POV: Author
The morning light slipped through the curtains, falling across the bed in soft streaks. The world outside was already awake, but inside, everything felt still and quiet.
Anna shifted slightly, reaching for the warmth beside her, but her hand met only the cold side of the bed.
Her heart dropped for a moment.
"Alex?" she called softly, her voice still heavy with sleep.
No reply. Just the faint hum of the air conditioner.
She slowly pushed herself up, hair messy, eyes barely open. That's when she noticed the note—folded neatly and placed on the pillow.
She picked it up, already smiling before reading it.
"Good morning, my love.
Had to leave early for something important. Don't ask what because its a surprise. be ready by 7 p.m. The driver will pick you up . Wear what's in the closet
Alex"
A quiet laugh escaped her. "Of course you did," she murmured, shaking her head. That was just like him—never explaining anything fully, always planning something in secret.
She set the note down and got out of bed, tying her robe around her waist. Her bare feet moved softly across the floor as she walked to the closet.
When she opened it, her breath caught.
A beautiful dark blue gown hung inside—simple, yet stunning. The fabric looked expensive, smooth, almost glowing under the light. On the small table beside it lay a pair of diamond earrings and the necklace Alex had given her the night before.
She ran her fingers lightly over the fabric, a soft smile forming on her lips. He always knew exactly what suited her.
After a shower, she made herself some coffee and toast, settling by the window. The morning felt calm, peaceful—just the way she liked it.
Her phone buzzed suddenly.
"Happy anniversary, Mrs. Knight!"
"Derek!" Anna laughed, picking up the call.
His voice came through loud and cheerful, as always. "So, how's the big day going? Has your husband already spoiled you with something expensive?"
"Not yet. He's being mysterious again," she said, rolling her eyes, though her smile remained.
"Ohhh, mysterious. That's either romantic or suspicious. I haven't decided yet," Derek teased.
"You're impossible."
"That's what makes me great. Anyway, am I invited to this fancy thing you two are planning?"
"Of course. You're always invited," she replied warmly.
"Perfect. I'll come early and embarrass you—just like old times."
Anna laughed. "You better not."
After the call ended, she sat quietly for a while, glancing at the note again. Her heart felt light. She loved how Alex never forgot even the smallest things.
The day passed slowly. She cleaned the living room, did a bit of work on her laptop, and spoke to her mother for a while. By evening, she finally began getting ready.
The gown fit her perfectly, as if it had been made just for her. She wore only the diamond earrings and the necklace Alex had given her—nothing more. She didn't need anything else. It was already enough.
When she looked at herself in the mirror, she paused.
For a second, she didn't recognize the woman staring back.
Then she smiled softly. Maybe it was just because she hadn't dressed like this in so long.
At exactly seven, the driver arrived.
"Good evening, Mrs. Knight," he said politely. "Mr. Knight asked me to take you to the venue."
Anna nodded, her heart beginning to race.
The drive felt long and quiet. City lights passed by like scattered fireflies, glowing softly against the window. She kept wondering what Alex had planned.
When the car finally stopped, she looked outside—and gasped.
The Celestine Hall.
Of course. Only Alex would book one of the most expensive venues in the city.
The entire place glowed with warm golden light. Roses lined the staircase, and soft music drifted from inside.
Anna stepped out carefully, the cool breeze brushing against her bare shoulders. Taking a deep breath, she walked up the stairs.
Inside, her eyes widened.
Everything was perfect—chandeliers shining like stars, white and gold decorations everywhere, candles flickering in every corner. Guests in elegant attire moved through the hall, laughing, talking, holding champagne glasses.
She spotted her parents near the front, her stepfather engaged in conversation with a group she didn't recognize. Everyone looked polished, important, untouchable.
She was still taking it all in when she suddenly felt arms wrap around her from behind.
"Miss me?"
She turned, and there was Alex—smiling, dressed in a black tuxedo. Effortlessly handsome. For a moment, she forgot how to breathe.
"Alex," she said softly, almost laughing. "You scared me."
He grinned. "That wasn't the plan."
His gaze dropped to her necklace, and his smile deepened. "You wore it."
"Of course. You gave it to me."
"Then it's perfect," he murmured, gently brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
The evening unfolded like a dream.
They spoke with guests, posed for pictures, laughed with friends. When Derek arrived, he immediately waved both hands dramatically.
"I'm here! Someone tell me where the cake is!"
Anna laughed. "You never change."
"I try not to," he said proudly.
Dinner was filled with laughter and stories. Then came the cake—tall and elegant, with "To Forever –Alex & Anna" written in gold.
They cut it together as everyone applauded.
Alex leaned in slightly. "One year down. Forever to go."
She smiled. "You better mean that."
"I always do."
Later in the evening, Anna stood near the side of the hall with a few friends, holding her glass as they talked. She could still see Alex a short distance away, surrounded by business partners.
The music was soft. The lights were warm.
Everything felt safe. Happy. Complete.
Until she heard it.
"Anna Brown?"
Just her name.
Two simple words.
But the voice hit her like a sudden wave.
Her smile vanished. She froze, fingers tightening around the glass.
That voice.
She knew it.
Years had passed—but it hadn't changed.
Laughter. Mocking whispers. Her name echoing down long school corridors.
The memories crashed into her before she could stop them.
Her hands trembled. Her chest tightened. The room blurred—the music, the lights, the people.
She was back there again.
Sixteen. Small. Scared. Trying not to cry while others laughed behind her.
She swallowed, her throat dry.
Slowly… she turned.
And there he was.
William James.
Her worst nightmare.
To be continued...