𝐀𝐥𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐳 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: The Broken Vows

Prologue

The city spread out before her, a bright maze of lights against the dark night sky. From her high spot above the busy streets, Victoria could see the whole world as a tiny picture of work and dreams. But she still looked at the far edge, and felt sad.

The aroma of lilies and the faint echo of laughter filled the air inside the luxurious penthouse. Victoria's children were energetic and innocent as they ran around the spacious living room, their joy a sharp contrast to the silent pain in her heart.

As she watched them, her heart felt like a delicate porcelain doll that was about to break with each second that went by. Once a symphony of happiness, their laughter now seemed like a mocking reminder of the dreams that had faded to dust and all she had lost.

She felt trapped in a life that was no longer her own, and the penthouse, which had previously represented their love, now felt like a gilded prison. Memories of a love that had flared brightly before being put out by the harsh hand of fate threatened to choke down her as the walls closed in.

She missed the comfort of his presence, the sound of his voice, and the warmth of his touch. Yet, those recollections were now merely ghosts, tormenting her with the echo of what might have been.

Below, the city lights flickered, a reminder that the world continued to revolve, ignoring the broken pieces of her heart. She was aware that she needed to move on, figure out how to put her life back together, and build a future for herself and her kids.

But the shadows of the past persisted, serving as a continual reminder of the promises that had been betrayed and the vows that had been broken. Could she ever fully break free from the darkness that had crept into her soul? That question lingered, a silent torture.