For three years, I loved Ryan with everything I had. I celebrated his wins, stood by him through hard times, and imagined that one day, we’d build a life together.

So when our anniversary rolled around and he told me he’d made reservations at an upscale downtown restaurant and had “a surprise” in store, I didn’t just guess what was coming—I was sure of it.

I curled my hair. Got my nails done. Wore the emerald green dress he always said made my eyes “shine like spring.”

I was ready for a ring.
Instead, I got a reminder of how small he’d made me feel all along.

A Celebration That Wasn’t Meant for Me
We made it through appetizers and wine. Ryan was relaxed, almost giddy, like he was sitting on a secret. I sat there, nerves tangled in my stomach, hands lightly shaking beneath the tablecloth.

Then dessert came.

The waiter placed down a delicate white plate with gold trim, and in chocolate script, it read:

“Congrats on Your Promotion!”