Discovering Betrayal

I was roused from my slumber by the first beam of dawn light that peeked through the sheer drapes. With my usual routine of snoozing the alarm, I rolled out of bed, drew back the drapes, and basked in the warm embrace of the morning sun. Rising from my seat, I made my way to the restroom. A fragile face, shoulder-length black hair, and a determined expression—all of which betrayed my mastery of life—were reflected in the mirror. 

Once the laundry was done, I deftly made my way to the closet to retrieve my business attire for the day. Personally, I'm going for a sharp black suit and a white button-down for today. Wearing it gives the impression of being both functional and businesslike. I meticulously styled my hair to guarantee that each strand was just so. Grinning self-assuredly at the reflection in the mirror, get out of the room and face the day. 

The house is neat and tidy, and everything has a certain spot. With a cup of coffee and two towels, I made a quick breakfast for myself as I strode into the kitchen. Sip your breakfast as you peruse the agenda for the day. This is the rhythm I love, even if my life is often busy. This feeling of mastery over my life gives me purpose and fulfillment, and I love it. 

On the way to work, you'll pass by my workplace, which is perched atop a skyscraper in the heart of the city and has breathtaking views of the surrounding area. I smiled in response to the warm greetings from my coworkers as I entered the workplace. I am fully aware that I must give my all at today's crucial project meeting. 

This crucial project meeting is being presided over by me in the conference room. Present yourself professionally and assuredly in front of the board as you delegate responsibilities to your staff. Everything is in its proper place, and the voice is loud and clear. Each member of the team listened to me with consideration and assurance. 

"This project is about the company's future development, and I hope you can do everything you can," I said to myself. "We need to complete all the preparations within a month to make sure that every detail doesn't go wrong." 

Upon the conclusion of the meeting, I returned to my workstation and resumed my routine tasks. Thoughts are crystal clear and processes are well-organized, despite the mountain of paperwork on every workstation. This method of working is really effective, and I feel like I'm always becoming better at it. 

I was deep in thought when my phone started ringing. It was Jason's fiancé, as was immediately apparent from the caller ID. When I answered the phone, Jason's voice sounded from the other end. 

Zoe, Jason mentioned that he might return home later tonight. "The company has an emergency meeting, which may be delayed very late." 

A small doubt sprung into my thoughts as I listened to Jason's statements. I told Jason not to push himself too hard because his tone sounded strange, but I didn't give it much thought. 

"Well, Jason, take care of your body, don't get too tired," I replied with kindness, "if you need help, tell me anytime." 

After answering the phone, Jason hung up.I returned to my work and put down my cell phone, but that nagging doubt never went away. 

I planned to surprise Jason with dinner that I would make for him that night. I purposefully prepared Jason's favorite dish and included it in a mouthwatering dinner box. To Jason's place, put on your coat and bring your lunch. 

Even though it was getting dark outside, the office building where Jason worked was still lit up when I got there. Enter the building and ride the elevator to the floor where Jason works. Anxieties and anticipation settled into my chest as the elevator door swung open. 

You can see the lights inside Jason's office through the glass door if you go to it.I pried open the door, only to be met with a startling sight. A young, attractive woman was with Jason, and they were acting very intimately while seemingly exchanging some kind words. 

A sharp crack sounded as my hand's bowl shattered the floor, and my chest felt like it had been sliced open. As soon as Jason laid eyes on me, his complexion went icy. The two men in the room went into a state of stunned expression. 

"Zoe, how did you end up here?" Jason inquired, his anxiety well concealed. 

A wave of betrayal and wrath washed over me, and my entire world seemed to crumble at that moment. Stepping closer, I stared at Jason and the woman, my eyebrows furrowed in anger as tears welled up in my eyes. 

I inquired, "Is this your emergency meeting?" with a quiver in my voice and knife-sharp eyes. 

I refused to listen to Jason as he attempted to clarify. The anguish was so intense that it choked the heart. Tears welling up in my eyes, I bolted out of the office. 

As soon as they left the office, the night air blew in, a little chilly. As I stood in the streets, my heart was filled with shock and indignation, and tears were pouring freely. Betraying me? My loving fiancé? I couldn't believe it. 

My best friend Lily's number was the one I reached when I picked up the phone. While I sobbed into the phone with Lily, she listened calmly, offered me words of encouragement, and made me feel better. 

So, Zoe, where have you gone? In a voice that betrayed her worry and anxiety, Lily promised to visit you immediately. 

Inform Lily of her whereabouts, and she promptly drove up to me. I felt reassured by Lily's comforting embrace the moment I hopped in the car. 

"Let's go home," Lily responded, "and everything will be fine." 

Upon returning home with Lily, I immediately felt a sense of emptiness and loneliness upon opening the door. What was once a cozy residence now appears frigid and deserted. 

As I sobbed into my mug of hot tea, Lily brought me to the couch and tended to my every need. Once again, I found myself unable to hold back my emotions as the anguish in my heart compelled me to take a breath. 

I looked at Lily and asked, "Lily, what am I supposed to do?" my expression betraying my despair and perplexity. 

Keep your strength, Zoe; this is not your fault. Jason, you should be proud of yourself; you don't have any right to be depressed. 

Listening to Lily brought me a feeling of ease. Finding a way out of my sadness was an absolute necessity; I simply could not stay there any longer. 

I lay contorted on the bed, unable to sleep, in the middle of the night. As I leaned back in my chair, I recalled all the wonderful times spent with Jason. I feel like a dagger is cutting into my heart from those once lovely memories. 

Looking back on our first meeting, I am filled with joy since he was so kind and caring. The pleasant memories we once shared are now so hazy and far away. I can't stop the violence of these recollections, and it hurts so deeply that I don't even know why it's happening. 

Take a seat at the desk with Jason and peruse the old photographs and letters. There is a record of our former bliss and sweetness in every picture and letter. Tears once again muddled the view, and the heart was repeatedly pierced. 

"What did I do wrong?" A voice choked with uncertainty and agony, I whispered the question to myself. Attempting to ascertain the source of the issue, whether anything was disregarded, and whether Jason's affection was unknowingly lost. 

Look back on your life and see what you can learn. Consider all the arguments and miscommunication, all the issues that went unanswered. I didn't get Jason's decision to betray me instead of working with me to resolve our issues, and it confused me. 

Lily contacted her friends once more, but this time she wasn't sobbing; she was attempting to calm herself and get some advise. At the other end of the phone, Lily listened attentively and encouraged me much. 

Zoe, always keep in mind that it's not about you. It's not your fault that Jason betrayed you; he chose to do so. I felt at ease listening to Lily's voice since it was both warm and firm. 

My god, Lily, I am at a loss for what to do. The thought of collapsing is making me queasy. 

Do not rush into a choice, Zoe; you must allow yourself time to recover from the injury. Allow yourself some space and time to collect yourself. "I found optimism in Lily's suggestion. I listened to her counsel and gave myself a break to get well. 

I went from being in agony to being angry as time went on. No amount of forgiving Jason for what he has done to me can make me tolerate his treachery any longer. Instead of giving in to my sadness, I resolved to get even with Jason. 

I started plotting my strategy to woo Henry, Jason's uncle, a dashing and experienced gentleman. Even though I was aware that the game would be risky, I was unfazed and resolved to give Jason a taste of betrayal. 

In an effort to get to know Henry better, I began researching his interests and routines. Even though I anticipate difficulty, I am confident in my ability to overcome it. My resolve burned like fire, and I locked eyes with determination. 

I went to a fancy business event with the intention of getting close to Henry. My evening gown was both seductive and sophisticated, and I was dressed to the nines. I want to capture Henry's interest and pique his curiosity about me. 

I went to the venue that night and searched for Henry. Henry was chatting with some very powerful businesspeople when I found him; their attention was clearly captivated by his charisma and poise. 

Putting on a nice smile, I stepped over to Henry after taking a big breath. His gaze fixed on me the second I stepped out in front of Henry. 

With a self-assured handshake and the words "Hi, I'm Zoe Chen," I addressed Henry and introduced myself. 

"Hello, Zoe! This is Henry Lee. Meeting you is a pleasure. 

I struck up a conversation with Henry, and I was immediately captivated by his charisma, intelligence, and sense of humor. We had lengthy, very hypothetical conversations covering a wide range of subjects, from business to art, from life philosophy to travelogues. In addition to being a prosperous businessman, Henry strikes me as a fascinating and introspective human being. 

Henry spoke with a soft but perceptive look, "You have a special understanding of art, and very few people can relate to it on such a profound level." 

"Thank you," my face lightened up, "art is one of my little hobbies, and it gives me a sense of tranquility in my busy work." 

"Well, Zoe, what do you usually like to do to relax yourself?" 

"In addition to art, I like to travel and try new food," I replied with a purposefully casual tone, laughing. There ought to be joy in life, no? 

While Henry screamed, he stared fixedly at me. "Yes, the beauty of life lies in constantly exploring and discovering new things." 

As our chat progressed, I couldn't help but be captivated by Henry's irresistible charisma. I choose to keep playing even though it deviated from my initial strategy. 

"Henry, you're truly captivating," I exclaimed, a hint of enthusiasm showing in my voice, "I really wish we could have more chances to converse." 

Henry smiled and gazed at me, his eyes revealing an indescribable emotion. He painstakingly took hold of my hand and whispered, "Zoe, I also wish I could get to know you better." 

Knowing that I had captured Henry's interest caused my heart to race a little.I made the decision to continue our connection and give Jason the opportunity to witness our love firsthand.