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Isis walked slowly into the bathroom, her heart beating with unease. She heard muffled voices, followed by soft chuckles. Her steps faltered. The voices were familiar — a man’s deep tone mixed with a woman’s gentle laughter. A cold feeling crept through her chest. She recognized them, but she desperately hoped she was wrong.

With trembling hands, she moved closer to the door, the sounds becoming clearer. Her breath caught as she gently pushed the door open. The sight before her made her freeze in shock. Barry, the man she loved and planned to propose to, stood in the small bathroom, holding Melisa — her friend. His lips, smudged with lipstick, confirmed what words couldn’t.

Time seemed to stop as her gaze locked on them. A wave of pain shot through her, leaving her numb. The door creaked under her shaky hand, drawing their attention.

Barry spun around, panic flashing in his eyes. “I… I can explain,” he stammered, wiping at the lipstick on his mouth with trembling fingers.

Isis felt hot tears roll down her cheeks. Her vision blurred, her chest tightened, and without a word, she turned and ran.

Table of MR STRANGER

Table of contents

Volume 1