Chapter 1: The Ring
In the sixth year of our relationship, I found a ring box in my boyfriend's coat pocket. On my birthday, I waited for him with a full heart. Then I saw the photos on social media: Shen Ling'an and another girl at an expensive couple's restaurant. I took a taxi there and arrived in time to see him kneel and propose. The crowd around them cheered. I had saved up so much disappointment that I did not scream or cry. I called my father. "Dad, I agree to the marriage with the Sheng family. Start preparing the wedding." My father was silent for a moment. Then his voice filled with relief. "My good daughter. You have finally seen sense. Marriage is about matching backgrounds. You can taste plain porridge outside, but you cannot eat it for a lifetime." I said yes and stood in the lobby of the restaurant, watching Shen Ling'an kiss the girl while everyone applauded. My father heard the noise. "When will you come home and meet the Sheng heir? They have been pressing for an engagement." "In three days. After I finish things here." Shen Ling'an slipped the ring onto the girl's finger. Then he stood and saw me across the crowd. He frowned. He took the girl's hand and led her back to their table. Roses, champagne, piano music, candlelight. In six years, he had never brought me to a place like this. I turned and left.