Chapter 1

Seven years into our relationship, Ethan Reed turned our wedding into a divorce ceremony for the third time, making a complete fool of me.

This time, I didn't yell or make a scene. My heart had simply died.

Around me, his friends roared with laughter while I stood frozen in the center, my face expressionless.

"Haley, why aren't you laughing? Don't tell me you're actually mad?"

I said nothing. Gradually, their laughter faded as they exchanged awkward glances. The silence became eerily oppressive.

Only then did Ethan press his lips together and step forward to ruffle my hair.

"What's wrong? Haley, are you really angry?"

I looked at him, suddenly remembering the conversation I'd overheard last night between him and his friends.

"Ethan, aren't you worried that pulling this stunt will make the Rose of the South actually leave you?"

Ethan had answered dismissively, "I promised Vivian I'd mess with Haley three times. After this one's over, I'll give Haley a real wedding to make up for it. She's been with me all these years, after all."

Now, I stared at him quietly and forced my lips into a smile.

"A divorce ceremony, right? Let's continue then."