Caught in a storm, I ended up at a gas station on my birthday, frustrated and alone. Things took a turn for the worse when my boyfriend Jordan and his mother Samantha showed up, along with his brother Alex, creating a tense atmosphere.

Jordan dismissed my frustration, saying, “It’s just a little storm. Don’t be such a drama queen.” Meanwhile, Samantha made her condescension clear, commenting, “We have important plans for the future,” hinting at a lack of consideration for my feelings.

In the restroom, I found solace when Alex expressed his love for me, saying, “Emily, you don’t have to change who you are for anyone.” I felt relief and courage as we realized we both had feelings for each other.

When Jordan proposed, I declared, “I don’t want to marry you,” revealing the truth. Amidst the chaos, Alex and I decided to start fresh, leaving behind the manipulation and deceit.

As we drove away, Alex proposed marriage at a chapel, and I accepted. Finally, we could begin a new, genuine life together.