Work Text:
Prologue
Laughter echoed through the grand reception hall as the newlyweds ran hand in hand toward the waiting bridal car. Camera flashes illuminated their wide smiles while family, friends, business partners, and distinguished guests erupted into cheers.
"Wooh! Enjoy your first night!"
"Win, kalmahan mo ha!"
"We're expecting grandchildren tomorrow!" Ria's mother shouted.
Sherwin laughed sheepishly, his ears turning slightly red, while Ria merely smiled for the cameras. It was flawless-every glance, every wave, every smile. Just enough to convince everyone that they were the happiest couple in the room.
The bridal car slowly pulled away, carrying them toward the luxury honeymoon suite prepared for their first night as husband and wife.
An hour later, they stepped inside a room dressed for romance. Soft candlelight danced across the walls. Rose petals covered the bed, and the faint scent of fresh flowers filled the air.
The moment the door clicked shut, Ria let go of Sherwin's hand.
Without a word, she slipped off her heels and walked deeper into the room.
Sherwin watched her for a moment before offering a gentle smile.
"Hon-"
She stopped in her tracks.
Slowly, she turned around.
"Hon?" she repeated, her voice calm but sharp enough to cut through the silence. "Who's 'hon'?"
The smile on Sherwin's face faded.
Ria looked down at the wedding band on her finger. Without hesitation, she pulled it off and placed it on the bedside table.
A soft clink echoed through the room.
"Let's make one thing clear, Sherwin," she said, finally meeting his eyes. "This marriage is a contract. Nothing more."
She picked up her overnight bag.
"And don't expect me to play the role of a loving wife once that door closes."
Without waiting for a response, Ria walked into the adjoining room and shut the door behind her.
Sherwin remained where he stood. His gaze drifted to the wedding ring resting on the bedside table.
The room had been prepared for a honeymoon.
Instead, it became the first night of a marriage that neither warmth nor vows could begin to mend.