Embers of Betrayal

Chapter 14: The Facade

Maxim, oblivious to Bernadette's awareness, tries to maintain the facade of a loving husband in public, further deepening Bernadette's resentment.

A high-profile charity gala. Maxim mingles with guests, his arm around Bernadette as they pose for photos. Maxim smiles warmly, his charm evident. Standing beside him, Bernadette feels the weight of her knowledge and anger.

Maxim: (to a group of guests) "Thank you all for coming tonight. Your support means the world to us. We're committed to making a difference in our community."

Bernadette: (forcing a smile, her voice low and tense as she leans closer to Maxim) "It's so nice to know everyone coming together for such a good cause, isn't it?"

Maxim: (with a practiced smile) " It's moments like these that remind us of the importance of giving back. I'm grateful for your support, Bernadette."

Bernadette: (her eyes cold as she looks around) "Yes, it's certainly... heartwarming."

Later that evening, Bernadette sits with her close friend, Clara, at a quiet corner. The conversation turns serious.

Bernadette: (taking a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly) "Clara, you have no idea how hard it's been. Watching Maxim pretend to be the perfect husband while I know the truth—it's unbearable."

Clara: (concerned) "Bernadette, I can only imagine how painful this must be. Have you thought about confronting him?"

Bernadette: (shaking her head) "No, not yet. I want to make sure I have everything I need before I make any moves. I need him to believe that everything is still normal."

Clara: "But what if it's too much for you? I know you're strong, but this has to be taking a toll."

Bernadette: "It is. But I've realized that our entire marriage has been built on lies. Every moment he's been with her, every lie he's told—it's all been a betrayal."

Clara: (nodding thoughtfully) "So, what are you planning?"

Bernadette: (her eyes darkening with determination) "I'm going to gather all the evidence I can. I want him to know that I've seen everything, and then I'll decide how to move forward. I need him to feel the consequences of his actions."

Clara: "You've been so strong through all of this. Just remember, whatever you decide to do, I'm here for you."

Bernadette: (sighing deeply) "Thank you, Clara. I appreciate that. I just need to be smart about this. He needs to understand the full weight of what he's done."

Clara: "And you will make sure he does. You're more than capable of handling this."

Bernadette: (smiling faintly) "I hope so. I just want to make sure that when the time comes, he'll see that his actions have consequences."

Clara guides Bernadette back to the gala where Maxim is seated at a table with Clarissa. As they approach, Clara discreetly signals Bernadette to stay close, while Bernadette observes the scene with growing tension.

The gala is in full swing, with guests mingling and enjoying themselves. Clara and Bernadette walk toward Maxim's table. Bernadette, pretending to be unaware, keeps her gaze forward. Maxim and Clarissa are deep in conversation, their voices raised.

Clarissa: (angrily, her voice carrying) "Maxim, why on earth did you bring her here? This is supposed to be our time—just us. Why drag your blind wife into our private space?"

Maxim: (trying to maintain his composure, his voice low but firm) "Clarissa, calm down. Bernadette's presence here isn't about us. It's a public event, and she's my wife. I can't just leave her at home while I come out. You knew this when we started."