72. Cruel Woman

Dianne's heart ached as she contemplated the truth she was about to reveal. She knew that once the words were spoken, their lives would change forever. But the weight of her deception had become unbearable, and she knew that honesty was the only way forward.

As the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room, Dianne took a deep breath and mustered up the courage to wake Nicolas from his slumber. She gently shook his shoulder, and he stirred, his eyes fluttering open.

"Good morning, my love," Nicolas murmured, his voice still heavy with sleep. He stretched his arms and yawned, unaware of the storm that was about to descend upon their relationship.

Dianne's heart raced as she looked into Nicolas' eyes, searching for the strength to speak her truth. "Nicolas," she began, her voice trembling ever so slightly, "there is something I need to tell you. Something I should have told you a long time ago."

Nicolas sat up, concern etching lines on his forehead. "Wh