84: Everything is Fake

"You're not in a genuine relationship. Everything you've shared was a lie," my inner voice mercilessly declared once again, striking at the vulnerable core of my being. The past, with its illusions of innocence and bliss, was now an unattainable realm. Yet, despite the pain, I couldn't bear the thought of him being hurt.

Finally, unable to bear the torment any longer, I made up my mind.

I sprinted towards the front door, flinging it open with urgency. The two men stationed as guards reacted swiftly, their hands instinctively reaching for their weapons as they rushed inside.

"Are you okay, miss?" one of them asked, poised to neutralize any potential threat.

After securely closing the front door, the other guard swiftly swept through several rooms, his actions reflecting a well-honed training and a clear commitment to their security detail.

"I'm fine, but something feels wrong with Rafael," I confessed, taking a few steps backward, my hands trembling with anxiety.

The larger guard