The Wedding
They married near the hayfield in front of their home. Lucy carried the rings, and the guest list was small—just close friends and family. Daniël claimed his parents couldn’t make the trip but promised they would visit later. Emma didn’t know it then, but her wedding day marked the height of the illusion.
Life felt perfect, yet sometimes Emma woke wondering if it was all a dream. Daniël was everything she had ever wanted. But the curse of skilled liars is that they wear convincing masks—until the truth rips them away.
Signs
Looking back, Emma realized she had ignored countless red flags. At night, Daniël often whispered apologies in his sleep. Sometimes she could not make out the words, but other times he clearly muttered, “Sorry.” When she asked him about it, he claimed he didn’t remember.
By day, he smoothed over her doubts with affection and laughter. Emma convinced herself there was nothing to fear. Together, they built family traditions to strengthen their bond.
Family Traditions
Lucy’s childhood was filled with rituals. Weekends meant basketball with Daniël, Wednesdays were for swimming with Emma. One of their most cherished traditions was creating New Year’s resolutions together.
They would spread out a giant sheet of paper across the dining table and decorate it with glitter, drawings, and bright notes. The lists brimmed with family goals—more trips, baking afternoons, even dreams of adopting a pet.
Emma treasured these moments. But this year, Daniël’s resolutions would destroy the tradition forever.