Shattered Vows

Characters

1. Sophie – The Protagonist

Sophie is a complex character shaped by her deep-seated insecurities and emotional strength. She begins the story as a hopeful and seemingly content woman, excited about her upcoming wedding to Mark. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers the ultimate betrayal—her fiancé and sister have been having an affair for years.

Personality Traits:

Loyal but underappreciated: Sophie has always put others before herself, particularly her family, and especially Jessica. She's been the dutiful daughter, always trying to please her mother and be supportive of her sister's successes.Strong but wounded: Though deeply hurt, Sophie possesses an inner strength that allows her to not immediately crumble after the revelation. Instead, she quietly plots to expose the truth on her terms, maintaining composure in front of those who betrayed her.Strategic and calculating: Once Sophie discovers the affair, she starts to play a long game, manipulating Mark and Jessica's relationship subtly. She withholds the truth from them to gain control, ultimately deciding when and how to reveal the betrayal.Resilient and independent: Sophie's ultimate journey is one of self-discovery. By the end of the story, she becomes someone who learns to walk away from toxic people and relationships, valuing herself and her independence.

Character Arc: Sophie transforms from a naïve, trusting woman who seeks validation from her family and fiancé, into someone who takes charge of her own life. The betrayal forces her to rethink her priorities, leading her to understand the importance of trusting herself and not relying on others for her happiness. She ends the story wiser, stronger, and more cautious about who she allows into her life.

2. Jessica – The Antagonist

Jessica, Sophie's older sister, plays the role of the "golden child" in their family. She has always been favored by their mother, Diane, and has never hesitated to take what she wants—even if it means betraying her own sister. Jessica's affair with Mark is a manifestation of her sense of entitlement and the deep sibling rivalry that Sophie has felt for years.

Personality Traits:

Self-centered and manipulative: Jessica has always believed that she deserves the best, often manipulating those around her to maintain her favored position. Her affair with Mark shows her disregard for Sophie's feelings and the lengths she will go to get what she wants.Charming yet ruthless: In social situations, Jessica appears polished and charming, a trait that allows her to win over their family and friends. However, beneath the surface, she is ruthless and calculating, willing to hurt those closest to her for her own gain.Unapologetic: When Sophie confronts her, Jessica shows no remorse for the affair. Instead, she defends her actions, believing that she is justified in pursuing her desires. This lack of accountability solidifies her role as the antagonist.

Character Arc: Jessica does not undergo significant growth throughout the story. Instead, her arc is one of exposure—her carefully constructed facade is shattered when Sophie reveals the affair to their family and friends. In the end, Jessica faces the consequences of her selfishness, being ostracized by her family, yet remaining defiant in her choices.

3. Mark – The Deuteragonist

Mark is Sophie's fiancé and the man at the center of the betrayal. His character is torn between his longstanding relationship with Jessica and his engagement to Sophie. Mark represents the weakness and moral ambiguity that often accompany infidelity, being driven by both guilt and desire throughout the story.