Lidiya Witchain - the forgotten bride

The cheating husband

Back in the village, Zindane was growing restless. His frustration at Lidiya’s disappearance consumed him. He searched everywhere, but she was gone without a trace. Each day, his anger boiled hotter, and yet, beneath it all, a strange feeling gnawed at him—a feeling he refused to acknowledge.Was it worry?

No, he told himself. It’s not worry. It’s something else. But the thought wouldn’t leave him.

Lidiya’s heart fluttered with excitement as she sang to the crowd in the bar, her voice weaving through the smoky air like a silken thread. But one man in particular had caught her attention. He sat quietly in the corner, a drink in his hand, watching her intently all day. His sharp features were softened by a look of fascination, his eyes never leaving her as she performed. She noticed the heavy pouch of coins he gave her at the end of each set, far more than the usual crowd would offer.

As the evening stretched on, the man approached her, his voice deep and smooth.

“You have the voice of an angel,” he said, his lips curling into a soft smile. “I’ve been here all day, and I still can’t get enough.”

Lidiya, flushed with both pride and a touch of embarrassment, thanked him. She was about to walk away when he placed a gentle hand on her arm.

“My name is Otto,” he introduced himself. “I have a proposition for you.”

Lidiya raised an eyebrow, curious. “What sort of proposition?”

“I’m the queen’s nephew,” he said, watching her reaction closely. “Her birthday is coming up, and I can think of no better gift than your voice. How would you like to sing at the palace?”

The words hit Lidiya like a bolt of lightning. Her eyes widened in shock, and she couldn’t hide her excitement. “The palace?” she whispered, her heart racing. “You want me to sing at the queen’s birthday?”

Otto smiled warmly. “Yes, it would be my gift to her. You’d be perfect for it.”

Lidiya could hardly believe it. The palace! The queen! This is my chance.

“Of course!” she blurted out, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. “I would love to!”

Otto smiled at her excitement. “You’ll need to be ready. It’s a grand affair, and everyone will be watching.”

Lidiya nodded, her mind already spinning with thoughts of the night to come. She could hardly contain herself as she ran to find Rexine and tell her the incredible news.

But when Lidiya entered their small apartment, her joy was dampened by the sight of Rexine sitting on the couch, tears brimming in her eyes. The sight of her friend so broken tugged at Lidiya’s heart.

“Rexine, what’s wrong?” she asked softly, kneeling beside her. “Why are you crying?”

Rexine shook her head, trying to wipe away her tears. “It’s nothing… I just… I miss him. My lover, he’s been gone for so many days now. I haven’t heard a word.”

Lidiya frowned, her heart aching for her friend. “Who is he? Do I know him?”

Rexine sniffled and pulled out a small photograph from a drawer, handing it to Lidiya with trembling fingers. “Here,” she whispered. “This is us. He’s a bit of a rogue… a thief who steals from merchants. But he’s everything to me.”

Lidiya’s smile faded as she took the photograph from Rexine. Her hands began to shake as her eyes landed on the image. In the picture, Rexine and the man were barely clothed—Rexine in nothing but a bra, and the man… Lidiya’s breath hitched.

It was Oswen.

Her Oswen. Her husband.

Lidiya’s world collapsed in that moment. The man she had fought for, cried for, endured so much pain for, was alive… and cheating on her all along. Her throat tightened as she struggled to keep her composure. She couldn’t let Rexine see the betrayal that tore at her heart.

Lidiya’s tears slipped silently down her cheeks as she stared at the photograph. She couldn’t believe what she was seeing. All this time, she had believed Oswen loved her, that his death was the greatest tragedy of her life. Now, staring at the truth in front of her, the pain was unbearable.

“I… I’m sorry, Rexine,” Lidiya stammered, handing the photograph back. “I hope he comes back soon.”

But inside, she was breaking.

That night, Lidiya wept bitterly, clutching her pillow as the truth of Oswen’s betrayal washed over her. Why did I suffer? Why did I fight for a man who never cared? She cried herself to sleep, the pain cutting deeper than any wound Zindane had ever inflicted. But even through her heartbreak, a steely resolve began to form. Zindane may be cruel, but he was right about Oswen. She had to see this through. The queen was her only hope now.

The next day arrived, and it was the day of the queen’s grand birthday celebration. Lidiya dressed carefully, donning a stunning baby pink gown adorned with pearls and sparkling studs. The dress hugged her figure perfectly, revealing just enough of her curves to turn heads, but modest enough to exude elegance. She was used to the attention now, the way men’s eyes lingered on her in admiration, but tonight was different. Tonight wasn’t about pleasing a crowd. Tonight was about seeking justice.

As Lidiya entered the palace, her heart raced with anticipation. The grandeur of the palace dazzled her—golden chandeliers, marble floors, and the most luxurious decor she had ever seen. But her mind was focused. Zindane must pay.

Little did she know, Zindane had found her. He had tracked her down, disguising himself as an old man with white hair. His plan was simple: to take her back by force if necessary. He had managed to slip into the palace unnoticed, his eyes cold and calculating as he watched from the shadows.